Postgraduate student scoops award for academic excellence

PhD student Hetty Blades has been selected to receive a cash prize of £500 for ‘overall academic excellence’ from robemakers Ede and Ravenscroft.

Hetty, who was born in Devon but now lives in London, was nominated for the award by her academic tutor for her outstanding achievements throughout the course.

Hetty has just entered her third year of a PhD in the Centre for Dance Research (C-DaRE). Her research examines the ontological repercussions of digital technology on dance works. Hetty chose to study her PhD at Coventry University because of the research profile of the department and the expertise her academic supervisors Professor Sarah Whatley and Dr. Scott deLahunta. Hetty said: ‘They are both very highly regarded in the field and their research closely relates to my interests.’

Hetty chose to undertake a PhD because she is fascinated by the topic and hopes to pursue an academic career.

‘I knew a PhD would deepen my understanding of the area and help my career progression. When I heard I’d won an award for my studies I was thrilled – and very surprised.’

The award is presented to a postgraduate student on the basis of overall academic excellence, so what makes Hetty stand out from the rest? ‘I have a genuine interest in the topic that I am researching, which really helps me to complete the work. I am lucky because I love the process of researching and writing. Hard work is also a significant factor!’