Mature student Mandy Wrenn was a great influence on the younger students while studying history at Portsmouth, and is still in touch with many of them. We still use her blog on urban football as a model for students on the Underworlds model thinking about how to analyse sources for their document commentary assignment. Below she describes how she went on to study (and gain a distinction) for a Masters degree in conserving historic buildings at the University of York.
Figuring out what to do after a history degree isn’t always straightforward. Some people have a plan, but for many, it’s a case of working out how their skills fit into different careers. That was definitely me! Studying history at the University of Portsmouth gave me a strong foundation, but it was only later that I realised how those skills could take me into the world of heritage conservation. My Master’s in Conservation of Historic Buildings at the University of York showed me just how valuable a history degree can be in shaping a career I hadn’t originally considered.
Studying history at the University of Portsmouth provided me with the critical thinking, research, and analytical skills that shaped my academic and professional journey. As an undergraduate, I learned how to evaluate sources, construct arguments, and place historical events in context. These abilities proved invaluable studying the Conservation of Historic Buildings field that combines history with architecture, heritage management, and practical conservation skills. My transition from history to conservation demonstrates how the skills gained in a history degree can be applied in unexpected and rewarding ways.
One of the most valuable aspects of studying history was learning how to investigate and interpret the past. The ability to analyse historical sources, understand change over time, and critically assess different perspectives was central to my coursework. As I developed these skills, I became increasingly interested in the physical traces of history—buildings, landscapes, and monuments that embody the past in tangible ways – especially in Portsmouth with its rich heritage. This interest led me to explore how historic buildings are preserved, used, and adapted, which ultimately influenced my decision to specialise in conservation.
The written and analytical skills developed during my history degree were particularly beneficial in my postgraduate studies. Essays, documentary reports, and presentations—staples of my undergraduate coursework—helped me develop structured arguments, synthesise information, and communicate findings effectively. These same skills were essential in my MA, where I encountered new forms of assessment, such as statements of significance. These statements require clear and well-researched justifications for the cultural and historical importance of buildings, drawing on the same ability to construct evidence-based arguments that I had honed during my history degree.
Mandy, third from the left, with other students on the Master’s in Conservation Studies at York.
The MA in Conservation of Historic Buildings attracted students from a range of backgrounds, including archaeology, architecture, and history. This mix of disciplines created a dynamic learning environment where everyone’s different perspectives contributed to discussions on how best to manage and protect historic buildings. We also had many overseas students so it was great to get a variety of international perspectives. The course covered architectural history, understanding and using traditional building materials, conservation philosophy, and heritage management, and provided both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. We had many site visits and hands-on projects which helped bridge the gap between academic study and real-world conservation challenges.
Mandy’s dissertation studied a remote church in Scotland.
For example, my dissertation focused on a remote 19th-century church in Scotland, which was being sold by the Church of Scotland and faced an uncertain future. I carried out all the historical and building research needed to develop a conservation plan, ensuring its significance wouldn’t be lost. This work also connected me with the church’s new owners, and I’m now helping transition it onto a more secure footing for the future.
Reflecting on my academic journey, I can see how my undergraduate studies at Portsmouth shaped my ability to engage with complex historical issues. The emphasis on critical analysis and structured argumentation prepared me well for the challenges of conservation, where balancing historical significance with practical concerns is key. The ability to research, interpret, and communicate historical information is highly transferable, opening doors to careers in heritage, museums, archives, and beyond.
For history students considering their next steps, I would encourage exploring how the skills developed during a degree can apply to a variety of fields. Conservation is just one example, but the ability to think critically, research effectively, and understand historical change is valuable in many sectors. I also did some volunteering during both my Undergraduate and Masters degrees, which also helped identify potential career paths and build connections within the heritage sector.
My transition from history to conservation has reinforced the importance of studying the past to inform the future. Historic buildings are not just relics; they are part of our shared cultural heritage and require careful management to ensure they remain relevant and accessible. The ability to bring historical understanding into real-world decision-making has been both intellectually engaging and professionally rewarding, and I look forward to continuing this work in the heritage sector.
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