Seven questions with Jordan Hassell

Why did you choose UCL?

After deciding that I wanted to study Archaeology, UCL was the only logical option. Its location in the capital meant I was surrounded by museums, collections and institutions, providing me with excellent volunteering opportunities and contacts. 

This will allow me to leave UCL with a CV I am proud of and will help me when applying for further roles.

I knew UCL's Institute of Archaeology worked with many of the leading academics and provided connections to fieldwork across the globe, both of which improved my knowledge and scope.

I also thrive in a busy environment, and in London you can never be bored - there is always something to do. Since moving to London, I have taken full advantage of the nightlife, the food, the theatre and the shopping. Now, anywhere else would seem tame in comparison and I cannot currently imagine currently moving out of the city.

What is the most interesting thing you've done, seen or got involved with while at UCL?

I think the real eye-opener opportunity I had while studying for my undergraduate degree was to work for the department's commercial field unit. This helped me strengthen my CV, to make excellent contacts (and friends) in the discipline and show me how archaeology could work as a career. 

I was also exposed to a variety of sites and conditions and had a great, fun-packed summer.

Where is your favourite place on campus?

I like eating my lunch on the Institute of Archaeology's 6th floor balcony (weather permitting), as it provides a beautiful view across UCL and London. It's a small, quiet pocket within UCL to take stock of the day.

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London:

• Visit the parks; Richmond, Hampstead Heath and Hyde Park. London is not all city.
• Go to Liberty - it's the true definition of shopping in London… even if most of the things are out of your price range.
• Finally, make use of the culture on UCL's doorstep and visit the British Museum. It has so much going on under one roof.

If you were to switch departments or courses at UCL, what would you study instead and why?

I think probably Medieval and Renaissance Studies as it would provide me with a great background for my studies in Medieval Archaeology. 

Naturally archaeology works best as an interdisciplinary subject and we often work across departments to make sure we are getting the most from our research.

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

Lena Dunham - smart and witty, and I don't think she would judge my messy eating.

What would it surprise people to know about you?

As a child I had a fear of David Bowie, particularly in the movie Labyrinth. I still can't watch the film.