My impressions of Sheffield, prior to departure, have mainly been influenced by the readings and media coverage. I have been less direct information through films that I’ve seen that are set in the area. Through these sources I imagine Sheffield to be ‘rough and tough’ in a way that my life in Australia isn’t. I am also prepared to acknowledge however, that this may not be a holistic view of the city and the lifestyle of its inhabitants.

One YouTube video evaluated new council initiatives that have been developed to counteract unemployment. In this instance I find both the issue and the function of the council very interesting. These types of initiatives and the role of the council itself, I think, will determine much of the future research I will do. Furthermore I think examining the history of the steel industry will also contribute while attempting to understand the economical impact the city has suffered. This is one thing I am, in a sense, expecting to be shocked by. The recent monetary fragility of the area is something that is financially, politically and socially foreign to me. In this way, I think I will find it challenging to fairly and accurately analyse these fundamental elements of the city.

In light of this challenge I think exploring these factors (such as the collapse of the steel industry) through a multi-disciplinary perspective will be very beneficial to my understanding. I am very excited to hear the input (and hopefully arguments) of my peers.

- Cecilia Barber (Bachelor of Arts)