MA International Relations

Gaining valuable real-world experience

After completing a bachelor’s degree at a different university, Jemimah decided to study MA International Relations at Herts after hearing about her friend’s positive experience. Having the opportunity to go on placement for a year was also a big plus for Jemimah. As she says, ‘It was one of a few universities that offered this, and it gave me a valuable opportunity to gain experience in the workplace.’

For her placement, Jemimah interned at City Year, a charity that helps students in London overcome personal and academic challenges with the aim of reducing inequality in education. She adds, ‘Studying international relations exposed me to the challenges people face and showed how these were being addressed at a global and regional level - whether that’s through policy-making, diplomacy, or research. My placement year allowed me to build on what I had learnt in the classroom in a real-world setting.’

Jemimah began her studies at Herts during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic but was able to return to face-to-face lectures towards the end of her course. One of her fondest memories from her time at Herts was meeting her lecturers and peers in person for the first time. She says, ‘I can still picture what it was like that day. Attending graduation was another fantastic experience, as we were all able to come together one final time and celebrate two years of hard work.’

Her plans and advice

Jemimah graduated in December 2022 and is looking for a role in international development. Her passion is in post-crisis management and humanitarian assistance, and she believes her studies at Herts have given her the skills to help people in the most difficult of circumstances, such as war.

Jemimah’s advice for Herts students is to ‘not be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources at Herts to help you perform academically and look after your wellbeing.’

From undergrad to postgrad

Harry had a keen interest in politics and history and wanted to build on what he had learnt during his A-levels. He felt that the undergraduate politics and international relations programme at Herts offered him that and says, ‘I saw the course as an opportunity to turn a passion into a valuable qualification. I lived in Hertfordshire too, so the location of the University allowed me to continue working part-time time whilst I studied.’

Harry was impressed by the quality of teaching during his undergraduate course and said that it was an easy choice to complete his postgraduate degree, MA International Relations, at Herts too. He says, ‘Both courses had a broad mix of modules, and your knowledge was assessed by a combination of written tasks and engaging practical exercises, which I enjoyed.’

Like many students, Harry fitted in visits to midweek events at The Forum between his studies. But when he needed to work hard, he spent most of his time at the de Havilland Learning Resources Centre (LRC). He says, ‘The LRC was quiet, had plenty of space and was a short walk from everything else on campus.’

After Herts

Since graduating from Herts, Harry has worked in a public relations role before moving to a position in an MP’s constituency office. There, he works with government departments and external stakeholders to help constituents. He says, ‘I spend a lot of time sorting issues with passport and visa applications, social housing, and assisting with benefits claims. Another big part of the role is communicating the MP’s position on a variety of topics and making people aware of the work they do locally and in Parliament.’

Harry’s advice

Harry’s best advice for current and future students is to ‘make use of your tutors and use the library’. He adds, ‘I know this seems obvious, but once I took advantage of all the support available, I saw a huge improvement in my work. And never be afraid to ask your lecturers if you’re unsure about a concept or theory.’