Kira Welland

Kira, who is studying on the MA Literature, Romanticism and the English Lake District course at our Ambleside campus, talks to us about her multidisciplinary research, her work at Rydal Mount and Brantwood in the Lake District, and her plans for the future.

Tell us a little about yourself, and your background before you started your MA course? 

Before I came to the University of Cumbria, I studied at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea. There I completed a BA in Comparative Literature and Culture, before studying for an MA in Archaeology and Heritage through distance learning with the University of Leicester.

Why did you choose to study the MA Literature, Romanticism and the English Lake District? 

I used to travel to the Lake District with my family as a child, and have always felt drawn to this landscape. I came across the MA in Literature, Romanticism and the English Lake District whilst browsing options for further study online, and was particularly drawn to its multidisciplinary approach to research and learning.

Could you tell us a little bit about your research?

My research focuses on the influence of material culture on writing. In modules, this has explored the use of a real world object within a piece of literature itself, such as the sheepfold in William Wordsworth’s poem ‘Michael’. However, for my dissertation I am combining my previous experience in buildings archaeology with my current studies, as I am investigating the influence of a building, specifically Rydal Mount, on the literature and writing of those who have resided there.

What do you enjoy most about the course?

The multidisciplinary approach that it facilitates. This degree has allowed me to combine my background of literature, archaeology, and heritage in my research, and many of the other students also have unique research backgrounds of different disciplines. It makes for very diverse and engaging discussions in seminars as everyone brings something different to the table. This course is also very connected with the literary heritage community of Cumbria, so there have been many opportunities to engage in events and network with other academics, professionals, and enthusiasts.

Could you please tell us about any work experience you have gained whilst studying the MA? 

I currently work full time as a House Guide at Rydal Mount. This has greatly helped my studies due to this building being the focus of my research, and has encouraged my studies of the Wordsworths and Romanticism. As well as this I completed two days work experience at Brantwood in Coniston for the Literary Tourism and Cultural Heritage module. Both places have helped to deepen my knowledge of the heritage and tourism industries, and also to learn more about historic houses of the area.

What has been your favourite experience studying the MA, so far?

There have been a lot of special experiences on this course, but a couple of my favourites have been attending Wordsworths read Wordsworth at Rydal Mount in October and Countrystride Live in November of last year. The students were invited to attend 'Wordsworths Read Wordsworth' before I started working at Rydal Mount, and it was magical to see the house and gardens in their autumnal dress. I learned of Countrystride Live through our course, and there was such a diverse array of lectures to attend – including a walk led by Dr Bradshaw.

How would you describe the support you've had from lecturers during your course?

Even before I started the course, the support has been incredible. Dr Bradshaw was more than happy to call and chat when I first emailed to enquire about the course. Throughout the course both Dr Bradshaw and Dr Ferguson have been very helpful with regular tutorials in addition to seminars. These have helped with brainstorming ideas, creating research areas, reading recommendations, and constructive feedback.

What’s next for you?

I am hoping to continue my studies to PhD level, while continuing to work in the heritage industry. I think there is a lot to be explored in the overlap between literature, archaeology, and heritage, particularly in Cumbria, and so would love to delve deeper into this research. Given the immense popularity of the Lake District for tourism, I think this research is important for contextualising the area as a cultural landscape and its impact today.

What would you say to anyone considering the MA in Literature, Romanticism and the English Lake District?

Do not be worried if you think your research area or background is too different or not of a traditional ‘literature’ focus. This MA can be moulded to your own interests, which is what makes it so diverse and engaging. Plus, what better way to study than to submerge yourself in a landscape that inspired so much literature, art, and philosophy?