As a sociology student at LJMU I have been given the chance to study in Amsterdam on the ‘International Fieldwork in Sociology’ module, but the question is why did I pick this module if not just for Amsterdam?
Although the trip should be good fun, I believe this is a grand opportunity that I have been given as I will be able to apply the research skills that I have been developing throughout the past two years at LJMU to research in a place that I am not overly familiar with. Before this opportunity, I had mainly researched university students within Liverpool, which is all well and good but this meant I have never been out of my comfort-zone. This experience will not only be about acquiring knowledge in unfamiliar surroundings, but it’s also about personal growth and expanding my horizons. It’s an opportunity to test and enhance my adaptability, learn from diverse perspectives, and challenge myself in new ways.
There is no end to growth: personal, academic or professional.
I will be implementing many skills that I have acquired along the course of my other modules. There is qualitative and quantitive research that I conducted within second year, where I developed research plans and ethics forms with a group of people I hadn’t worked with before, this will be important to apply to this research opportunity as we are given complete freewill of what to research within Amsterdam.
What I want to get out of this module:
Themes and Ideas
There is a vast amount of topics that could be researched in Amsterdam, it is a cultural city full of lots of beauty. It is known for many things from the narrow town house lined canals along with the bikes that are never out of sight, to the art that overspills the walls of its museums, to the red light district that bring thrills of desire to many. What interests me in Amsterdam? Student culture. There are many aspects of student culture that could be research and compared to student culture in liverpool.
Nightlife and Socialisation:
Nightlife and socialisation in Amsterdam form a dynamic and integral aspect of student culture. This sociological research topic explores how the city’s nightlife venues, including clubs, bars, and festivals, shape the social interactions, relationships, and the development of a distinct student subculture. Researchers delve into the influences of cultural and artistic elements, technology, and social media on student experiences during nighttime socialisation. The inclusivity and exclusivity of nightlife spaces, along with the emergence of various student subcultures, are examined, considering factors such as gender dynamics and the impact of regulations and policies. The study also investigates the effects of nightlife on student well-being and mental health, providing a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted relationship between nightlife and the social fabric of the student community in Amsterdam.
Gender Dynamics in Student Culture:
The study on gender dynamics in student culture in Amsterdam aims to explore the intricate interplay of gender roles, expectations, and power dynamics within the student community. This research investigates how traditional gender norms manifest in students’ behaviors, choices, and interactions. It delves into the representation of different genders in leadership positions within student organizations and analyses perceptions of authority. Additionally, the study examines the composition of friendship networks and the dynamics of romantic relationships, considering the influence of societal expectations on these social interactions. The research recognizes the intersectionality of gender with other identities, such as race and socio-economic status, and assesses the impact of campus policies on gender equality. By exploring these facets, the study seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of how gender shapes social relationships and experiences within the diverse student culture of Amsterdam
Student Mental Health and Well-being:
Student Mental Health and Well-being is a multidimensional research area that investigates the various factors influencing the mental health of university students in Amsterdam. This field encompasses a range of topics, including academic stressors, social support networks, access to mental health services, cultural and international student perspectives, financial pressures, technological influences, transition periods, intersectionality, work-life balance, preventive mental health programs, peer relationships, and crisis response. The research aims to understand how these factors interact and impact the mental well-being of students, contributing valuable insights for the development of effective support systems and interventions to promote mental health within the student community. It involves a holistic approach, considering both individual and environmental factors, to enhance our understanding of the challenges students face and improve the overall mental health landscape in the academic setting.
Intersectionality in Student Culture:
A research study on intersectionality in student culture in Amsterdam would investigate how various social identities intersect and shape individuals’ experiences within the student community. Key topics include race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, socioeconomic status, nationality and international students, disability and accessibility, religious identity, age and life stage, language and cultural background, activism and advocacy, and health and well-being. The study aims to understand the complex ways in which these intersecting identities influence representation, inclusion, social dynamics, and overall experiences within the diverse student population in Amsterdam. Researchers should employ an inclusive and participatory approach, considering ethical implications and prioritising the voices of individuals with intersecting identities in the research process.
The topic is subject to change as, like I said, there are a wide spread of interesting research topics in Amsterdam, one of which may catch our eyes more so than student culture.
Research aside, I’m looking forward to…
…basking in the scenery, taking in the culture, and exploring the museums. It will be exciting to be there with the friends I have found on my course. The prospect of immersing myself in the local culture and admiring the diverse landscapes fills me with anticipation. Exploring the unique museums with my friends promises to be an enriching experience, providing us with insights into the history and artistic treasures of the region. The opportunity to share these moments with like-minded individuals is something I truly cherish, and I can’t wait to create lasting memories together.
Kaleidoscope Existence
Kaleidoscope Existence 
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