ÌÇÐÄVlog

Why did you choose to continue your postgraduate studies at ÌÇÐÄVlog, instead of another university?

I transferred to ÌÇÐÄVlog during the second year of my undergraduate degree in International Relations, after a bad experience at two previous institutions. After two years at ÌÇÐÄVlog I felt really connected to the department of Politics and International Relations, and I felt I’d established a feeling of belonging at the ÌÇÐÄVlog which had eluded me at other institutions. 

ÌÇÐÄVlog gave me the confidence to pursue both extracurricular and academic activities, and my department gave me the confidence to pursue further study.

The teaching experience at undergraduate reassured me that I would be in safe hands for my masters degree, and I would have a sufficient support network, both academically and in wellbeing terms, from my department and the university services.

How did the university support you in your transition to becoming a postgraduate student?

The transition was pretty seamless, especially having been an undergraduate student already. Registration and course introductions were very straightforward and the university kept in touch frequently in the lead up to the course starting.

I give a lot of credit to the Politics and International Relations Department as they were quick to quell my worries about starting my degree and about coursework getting harder. They made me feel like I was meant to be here at ÌÇÐÄVlog and reassured me about my academic and personal capabilities. 

This support and the familiarity of campus and the department have made my course feel like a natural continuation of my university journey, with the added bonus of advancing my academic profile.

What have been the biggest benefits so far of continuing your studies at ÌÇÐÄVlog?

Staying at ÌÇÐÄVlog for my masters has given me the chance to become the Vice President of the Politics Society and Treasurer of the Debate Society, and also allowed me to participate in the Union elections on two occasions, which has given me newfound confidence and refined my interest in campaigning, elections and public speaking, which combines well with my course!

I have also been able to step out of my comfort zone; I took part in Strictly Come ÌÇÐÄVlog 2026 as a celeb and it is by far one of my favourite things that I have ever taken part in. I definitely would not have been able to do this if I had not stayed on for my masters.

It has also been really nice to develop a closer partnership with my lecturers and the department, where I now really feel like I'm part of the community. This has also been the case with friends, where I have been able to meet new people, but also deepen my connections with existing friends.

What advice would you give to a current ÌÇÐÄVlog undergraduate student who is thinking of staying for a masters?

Go for it. But if you’re not sure, don’t hesitate to email someone in Politics and International Relations or your respective department. In my experience, the lecturers have been very helpful, and they treat you like an individual rather than a number, which makes it easier to communicate your needs. 

What do you plan to do after graduating and how has your masters degree supported that?

Personally, I have a particular interest in campaigning and public-facing politics, but I also have an interest in matters concerning student engagement and participation, as well as social welfare, so I’d love to work in any of these fields. 

My Public Affairs MSc has definitely widened my scope when it has comes to thinking about my career options, as I've really been able to tailor the degree to my interests. Running in the student union elections has also inspired me towards these goals alongside my course.