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Andrew Harvey

Where are you from?

Lisburn, Northern Ireland.

What year did you complete your degree?

Graduated with BA Honours in Social Anthropology in 2006 and MA Social Anthropology in 2008.

Why did you choose to study Anthropology at Queen’s?

I was originally studying single honours Psychology but had taken first year Social Anthropology modules which I really enjoyed and was something different.  After my first year I found that I was enjoying Social Anthropology much more and decided to transfer to single honours in Social Anthropology which was the best decision I could have made.  I would definitely recommend Social Anthropology, even as a module choice, to first years.

What did you particularly enjoy about studying this subject at Queen’s?

It has given me a deeper appreciation of the world around me and the people within it, and has made me less narrow minded.  There is a whole wide world out there and studying Anthropology at Queen’s has broadened my mind and has helped me to think more critically about the world and my own beliefs and opinions. 

Tell us about any funding you received to help you take this course or any scholarships/prizes you have been awarded.

I won the Anne Maguire Memorial Prize in Social Anthropology 2006 for best dissertation.

What about studying at Queen’s in general? What was that like?

Queen’s is a fantastic university and I can truly say I have loved every minute of it.  So much that after my undergraduate degree, I worked at Queen’s full time for over a year before commencing my Masters. There is such a great atmosphere, everyone is approachable and friendly.  There is so much to do and go around the Queen’s area.  The QFT is well worth a visit as is the Belfast Festival at Queen’s and the Belfast Film Festival.  Queen’s is simply unique and there is something for everyone!

What do you hope to do when you leave Queen’s?

I aim to pursue a career in managing a residential home for adults with learning disabilities.  I am passionate about this work, having worked in this field for over 8 years and having wrote my dissertation on this topic. 

Would you recommend studying Anthropology to other students? What advice would you give them?

Definitely.  It is a fantastic subject with something for everyone.  My advice to other students would be you get out of it what you put into it.  Work hard, party hard and enjoy every minute of it!