Malcolm did his first degree in history at the University of Leicester. He has funded his MA partly by working as a hall sub-warden and assisting on the undergraduate history and computing module. His MA dissertation will explore the notion of the common good in relation to urban governance and the administration of charities in Leicester c.1820-1850.

Malcolm is an active member of the Centre. He has organised the Urban Literature Reading Group and is on the steering committee of the New History Lab.  He hopes to continue his studies in the Centre for Urban History at PhD level researching the role of charities and the 'common good' in funding municipal action in Edinburgh and Birmingham c.1820-1850.

Why did you choose the MA in Urban History?

• "It seemed more interesting than a straightforward MA in History; it was also attached to a research centre.
• "Range of modules – good time span.
• "Good transferability of skills including the marketability of urban history rather than history.
• "Did not require move out of Leicester.
• "Competetive fees to other institutions.
• "May have been slightly encouraged/threatened by members of staff whom shall remain nameless."

What has been the most interesting aspect of the course and why?

• "The positive environment, both physically in terms of the Salisbury Road establishment (even if the library is cold), but also intellectually and in terms of the relaxed personal relationships amongst the staff and students: it feels like a research community rather than a research centre. One need only consider the convivial atmosphere in the Marquis on a Friday night to see this.
• "The good availability of in-house resources.
• "The intellectual challenge.
• "Engaging with primary materials and producing 'real' history.
• "That the staff offers encouragement generally. For example the support etc. given over the urban literature group.
• "The good range of research seminars etc. – I wish I had time to attend them all. Other faculties do not offer the panoply of these .
• "I have enjoyed contributing, albeit minimally, to the undergraduate curriculum via HS2000B.
• "Attendance at various conferences as well as visits to archives, record offices and the BL. But I don’t get out much."

What has been the most fun aspect of the MA?

"Whilst not in the centre itself, our peregrination to Bath was a very enjoyable day out which was both informative and useful."

What parts of the MA have you enjoyed the least and why?

"Lack of sleep."

Are there any aspects of the MA which you would like to change?

"I feel that assessment of work is somewhat chaotic. By this I do not mean that I think the marking itself is unfair – the marking system is actually a strength as it is consistent, transparent and offers useful feedback. Why are some modules assessed with one essay, others two, some presentations, projects and 'Blackboard' contributions? Also, for 30% of 20 credits, 'Colonial Cities' has 3,500 words and 'Urban Topographies' has 3,000.

"I would introduce an individual reading course in the second term.

"By way of introductory reading, could there be something more exciting? The Cambridge Urban History of Britain would be a better bet even if is a rather heftier tome."

Are there any parts of the course which you feel will be of particular use for your future career choice?

"Perhaps not directly, with that only time will tell, but indirectly yes. The opportunity to improve your critical, analytical and research skills is invaluable."

Do you have any 'survival' tips for future students?

"The more fully you participate, the more benefit you will gain. This includes the research seminars and the pub."

What's the best cake Roey has cooked this year?

"A hard question indeed, given the quality levels. The ‘effing cake’ was particularly memorable."