Moving across the world from India to the United Kingdom at just the age of twenty to start my Master of Arts in Politics and International Relations, focusing on Political Theory, at Durham University was a lot to process.
I actually missed induction week and matriculation, which initially made settling in feel like quite a daunting mission. Yet, just walking through the historic heart of this city, I quickly sensed that I was exactly where I needed to be.
My academic life
My academic and professional focus has always been about understanding how political theory connects to the messy, on-the-ground reality of global affairs. Durham provides exactly that kind of rigorous and thought-provoking space.
The professors here do not just lecture; instead, they foster genuine curiosity and encourage us to thoughtfully challenge our own ideas by bringing real-world geopolitical challenges straight into the classroom.
Community and connection
Beyond the readings and seminars, becoming part of Ustinov College has been a great anchor. I have found a supportive and beautifully diverse group of peers here.
A few highlights over the past few months include volunteering at the Ustinov College Christmas Festive Fair, a simple but meaningful way to connect with the local community; serving as a Student Committee Member for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI); and completing my Arete Fellowship at Effective Altruism Durham.
These roles keep me grounded. They are a constant reminder that academia has to stay rooted in empathy, fairness, and human connection, not just textbooks.
Before and after Durham
Before this chapter, my time interning at the Ministry of External Affairs, India, and the Office of a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha really sparked my passion for policymaking.
Since being at Durham, I have had the chance to put that into practice by working with Bright Blue, The Borgen Project, and currently as a Policy Analyst at the Centre for International Security and Economic Strategy CISES and a volunteer with the ENGin program, where I serve as an English Conversation Partner and Mentor, helping Ukrainian students improve their English language and communication skills.
But it is here at Durham where those initial sparks have turned into a clear and resolute career direction. True learning is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is about growing as a person with integrity and purpose.
To anyone currently navigating their own doubts or waiting for their next big chapter, keep going. The pieces will eventually fall into place.
Discover more
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