Catherine Howe

Catherine Howe graduated in 2023 and is now an analyst at Hawthorn Advisors, a strategic consultancy in London.

My four years at Liverpool were spent studying with the School of Histories, Languages and Cultures, graduating with a first-class degree in History and Politics (Joint Honours) and a master’s degree in Political Science and International Relations (distinction - class of 2023).

What I enjoyed most about the master’s was expanding my area of undergraduate expertise through Jon Tonge’s Comparative Peace Processes module, where I gained what I predict to be a lifelong love for Basque studies.

I explored new disciplines, such as memory studies, which provided invaluable insight into the use and abuse of history by modern political actors. I was also successful during my placement with Liverpool City Council, which prepared me for the world of politics and communications.

I am now an analyst at Hawthorn Advisors, a strategic communications consultancy in London. We work with clients on their corporate communications, reputation, and political strategies. At Liverpool, I built strong critical research skills and a keen nose for opinion dressed up as ‘fact’ – this has served me well in my early career.

I adore Liverpool and the Politics department, so returning for a PhD isn’t entirely off the cards. For now, however, I am really enjoying my life in London, and also keeping in touch with a wonderful network of people who I met during my time in Liverpool.