Hi everyone!
I am new to this forum so I hope I am posting this in the right section.
Here's my situation: I am going to do my PhD in an interdisciplinary subject which is broadly located at the intersection of politics, sociology, development studies and discourse analysis. I have been accepted by both Essex (Government dep) and Sussex (Sociology and perhaps Development Studies if I get to do a joint degree, which is not clear yet as I have been "verbally" accepted but don't hold the offer yet). I have also applied to Kent (politics and IR) and still waiting for the decision, so not sure I’ll get a place.
I am looking for advice on the best university in terms of research, skills training and learning opportunities, resources and facilities but also more generally in terms of student experience (staff, degree completion, etc).
I heard that Essex is quite prestigious for politics but I don't want to get caught in the trap of reputation, I heard sometimes reality might not live up to the expectations :/ Also I kinda feel that Sussex is much more open, liberal and vibrant, but I might be wrong!
I applied to Kent because I lived in Canterbury for a few months, seen the campus and liked it, but I don't have much info about the university.
Those of you who studied in any of those, could you tell me a little bit about the opportunities to find internships or work placements? Essex seem to offer plenty but I am once again afraid it wouldn't be available to everyone - or at all...
Finally, if someone could also enlighten me regarding life in Colchester vs. Brighton and Canterbury? (student life, costs, transport...)
Sorry for the deluge of questions! I am really puzzled and don't have much time to decide. Thank you