Irralie Doel: 60-second interview
Where and what did you study for your degree?
I did all my degrees at the University of Liverpool: BA(Hons) in English Language and Literature, MA by Directed Research looking at constructions of poetic prose; PhD on poetry, creative process and practice.
What influenced you in your decision to become a university lecturer?
I was asked to teach by the School of English and on the Continuing Education and Widening Participation programmes at the University of Liverpool, and it all really happened from that.
What do you teach at the University of Brighton's Hastings campus?
I teach most of the English Literature modules and the English strands of the Common modules, on the joint honours programme.
What do like most about working here at Hastings campus?
Working with the staff and students here is brilliant – everyone is so committed to the Hastings campus and it’s a really vibrant community.
What is the most surprising thing you have found about working here?
I’ve been surprised by how friendly and supportive everyone has been – it’s always difficult to start a new life in a different place, but it’s been a joy to be here because all the staff and students have made me so welcome.
What do like about living in Hastings?
I live in St Leonards on Sea – we have a park across the road and the sea at the end of the road and I love the space and fresh air. Things like that make a difference when you’ve been so long in the middle of a city. And I like all the lovely cafes and interesting little shops and the general laid back vibe of the place.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to walk on the beach with our dogs and doing stuff like going to the theatre and gigs and art galleries. We just went to see the Tracey Emin exhibition at the Hayward in London which was amazing. I’m looking forward to exploring all the things there are to do here as I’ve not seen much yet.
Who is your favourite author and why?
I can’t just choose one – Hélène Cixous, Muriel Rukeyser, Anne Michaels’ novel Fugitive Pieces is probably one of my favourite books ever and I love Howard Barker’s drama and Joolz Denby’s novels, poetry and spoken word. Poetry’s my thing and these authors make stunning poetry when they write in any genre.
Who is your favourite band/singing artist, and why?
I like lots of different things for all sorts of reasons. I listen to music according to my mood, as I suppose everyone does. I like music live so my favourites are people that are great performers.
Who do you admire most in life and why?
Lots of people for different reasons – people I know, writers, artists, musicians, all sorts of people really. I admire people who create things that challenge me and make me think, and who manage to change and adapt.