Lauri Bower
My Research -
'Engaged Buddhism as practiced by Thich Nhat Hanh'
Full-time PhD student
I have been married for 20 years and have 2
teenagers, a daughter who has just started at Sheffield Hallam Uni,
and a son who is studying at York College.
Interests outside of Uni include sewing,
dressmaking, embroidery, making books and cards, jewellery,
calligraphy and dancing – ballroom and Indian!
I studied here as an undergrad, Theology and
Religious Studies, and I enjoyed it so much I wanted to stay. I
originally intended to take a PGCE after the first degree, but the
thought of research was more interesting! I started part time, but
went full time after completing the first year, so I have been here
since 2004.
Being a mature student and having a family is
hard work, but I think it also helps me be more focussed, and my
family are very understanding!
The staff in the department are very helpful,
and were very encouraging, especially helping me to decide what the
PhD research would be.
Living out of York, and being a mature
student, I don’t get very involved with the student life, but the
other PhD students in the Graduate Suite are lovely, and we did our
own version of ‘Come dine with me’ so we got to know each other
well.
York is a beautiful city and a great place to
be!