With a vast array of superb facilities, research centres and both virtual and in person conference events, the University of Birmingham is an excellent hub for postgraduate students. My supervisors Dr Lorraine Ryan and Dr Antonio Sánchez assist me hugely in my project.

Our virtual meetings take place once a month, in addition to offering regular assistance via email. I believe our sessions bring my research and own ideas to the forefront.

Dr Ryan for example offers helpful insights into her work on gender studies, where her research offers expert insight into how Spanish voters from both middle class and urban backgrounds largely reject toxic, authoritarian far-right leaders.

Dr Sánchez on the other hand, provides an excellent theoretical overview of my project, where his research interests concerns the contemporary affairs of Spain. Therefore, Dr Sánchez is tailor-made for to my work. His knowledge tracing the unexpected rise of Vox onto the mainstream political scene in 2018 up to the present day has helped me identify what specific socio-cultural issues motivate Spanish voters.

Following detailed meetings with both supervisors, I have identified right wing voters in Spain are less motivated by issues that motivate right wing voters, for example globalisation, Euroscepticism and immigration than other western nations. Therefore, the far-right has less room to expand its appeal with fewer voters that conform to the abrasive, reactionary tactics displayed by Vox.

With aspirations to work within the UK Civil Service, with a particular preference for either the Home or Foreign Office. I believe my research can help in the following ways. Firstly within an academic setting, my research will forge a greater understanding of far-right movements in Europe and challenge the consensus far-right movements are a rampant political force.

Spain is a good example of where the far right acts as an outlier within the political system, as opposed to a dominant, central force as witnessed in nations such as the United States and Italy.

With a long term aspiration to work within the Civil Service, my work can lead to an increased understanding to European societies and cultures, where my independent research develops skills such as cross cultural awareness, diplomacy and persuasive communication. Such skills can help improve international relations, such as cross diplomatic partnerships between the UK and Spain.

My Woltmann Masters Scholarship has aided my study in the following areas. Firstly, it has given me the confidence to continue my interest in studying an area of research I am enthused by- the absence of a successful far-right party in Spain. In addition, my project gave me the confidence to apply for extra research grants and submit applications for postgraduate conferences.

The vibrant postgraduate community offers vast opportunities to present research with academics and peers. Opportunities include the Three Minute Thesis, Lightening Talks and the annual LCAHM conference that takes place in May.

On occasions where I do visit the university, visiting Westmere House is always a must. This is a vibrant place to meet with peers and conduct research. The library and College of Arts and Law building are also excellent student hubs, with facilities to socialise with peers, organise engagement events and meet with the wellbeing team.

As a distance learner, I do not feel disadvantaged from my peers who study on campus. This is due to the vast array of meetings and workshops offered via Zoom. Events are organised by the Academic Writing Service who offer virtual sessions on writing techniques and 1-2-1 appointments via Zoom.

Over the course of my postgraduate studies, I have benefited financially from a virtual course, largely due to avoiding extra living, accommodation and travel costs.