'I used to see literature as nothing more than words on a page. Now I see it as something that lives within its environment and influences a culture and, in turn is shaped by that culture as well. It is a way of looking at or thinking about the world; far more, therefore, than just a simple book.'
Choosing your own path
What immediately appealed to Jules about the master’s was the freedom to shape his own research area. 'You really have to decide for yourself where you want to go within the field of research, and it helps enormously if you are curious about other disciplines,' he says. He began with Environmental Humanities and expanded this with sociology, urban studies, history and philosophical approaches to research. 'Through this broad combination, I discovered that literature does not exist only on the page, but is intertwined with the city, society and cultural networks.'
Communication
Alongside academic depth, the master’s brought Jules a great deal of personal development. Working with students from completely different backgrounds taught him how to deal with diverse working styles and perspectives. His academic writing skills also improved significantly; something that has proved essential in his current work. 'The programme didn’t prepare me for one specific profession, but it did give me a strong foundation of skills, such as collaboration, critical thinking and communication, which I still use every day.'
Thinking ahead
Precisely because the master’s offers so much freedom, Jules stresses how important it is to take responsibility and plan ahead. 'You have to write long essays and papers, and you do a lot of research. And even though you are very well supported, in the end you have to do it yourself. That means you need to be highly motivated.'
He advises future students to carefully explore which internships align with their plans, which events are important, and to familiarise themselves with the labour market. According to Jules, those who actively make use of this freedom get the most out of the programme.
Literary agent
Jules specialised in American literature and found work after his studies as a literary agent. 'I represent American publishers and agencies in the Netherlands and Scandinavia. When one of my clients announces that a new book is coming out, we look for a suitable publishing house that might want to buy the translation rights.' For Jules, everything comes together in his work. 'My interest in literature, and the knowledge and skills I gained during my master’s.'
Research
In addition to his work as a literary agent, Jules also works at the Amsterdam Museum. 'The master’s sparked my interest in art and culture. And although I engage with that a lot in my current job, I also want to approach it from another perspective. That’s why I now work one day a week in the museum’s Research and Publications team, so I can make use of the research side of my studies. I certainly don’t rule out doing a PhD one day.'
Learn more about the master’s programme in English Literature: Writing the 21st Century.
