International Relations MA
During my time as BSIS, I discovered my love of academic research and was supported by caring and capable mentors.
I am currently a Senior Policy Advisor for the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE). I hold responsibility for co-developing (with our Head of Skills) the strategic direction of Skills policy for the higher education sector, and for managing the Skills team work programmes.
During my time at BSIS, I discovered my love of academic research and was supported by caring and capable mentors. From BSIS, I moved to the University of Bristol in England to pursue a PhD in Sociology, examining Facebook as a political tool for identity movements. While I loved the academic aspects of my PhD, I didn't love the notion of an academic career and so chose to pursue academically-informed policy posts. I find that the familiarity of and respect for academic research and evidence-based policy making that I gained through both my Master's and then doctoral degrees has been crucial to my developing a successful career in public policy.
I also undertook an internship with the European Alcohol Policy Alliance during my studies in Brussels, which shaped my awareness of how research feeds into policy decisions -a vital step for anyone interested in policy work! The internship was one of many highlighted by BSIS and I remain grateful for the efforts of BSIS staff to open our eyes to the many advantages of studying in Brussels. Those internships, and the fries of course!
