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What have you being doing since graduation?

Since graduating, I joined the Civil Service Fast Stream, where I began with a transformative placement at the Ministry of Justice (MoJ). During my first year, I engaged in varied and impactful initiatives, such as reviewing court conditions for probation staff across the Midlands and conducting a national review on probation adherence in response to a high-profile crime. I also collaborated with The Talent Foundry on a charity event and supported social mobility efforts with the University of Sheffield.  

In addition, on my graduate scheme, I organised a departmental insight event for 90+ attendees on short notice, underscoring my project management skills.

Recently, I began my second placement as an Artificial Intelligence and Data Ethics Policy Advisor at the Home Office, continuing the development of my career and contributing to public service.

How did your experience at the University of Sheffield prepare your for your current career?

My experience at the University of Sheffield provided an excellent foundation for my career in public policy and the Civil Service. Studying public policy gave me a rigorous grounding in research and analytical skills, particularly through debating and presenting arguments within essays and my dissertation, which focused on social phenomena.

This academic work, paired with hands-on involvement in political events through the student union, helped me develop strong interpersonal skills and the confidence to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds. These experiences nurtured my interest in public service and prepared me well for the demands of my role today.

I took part in a student unions campaign to become a member of the committee. I lost, however it gave me a taste of politics, public speaking, and owning a piece of work (my leaflet about why people should vote for me being taped onto Uni buildings) that members of the public can see. This persuaded me to undertake the current career path I am on. 

What did you enjoy about your time at the University of Sheffield?

• The accommodation gave me the skills to negotiate with the people I was living with regarding how we should live in harmony. This definitely built up resilience.
• The University tutor support and environmental scenery supported my mental health whilst studying intensely. I now use this when I need to take a break from work. (Go for walk in the countryside etc).
• Some of the course content gave me the confidence to speak about controversial or sensitive topics in an empathetic manner and understand exactly our place in the world and how we can pull on certain strings to influence on agendas

What advice would you give students interested in studying politics and international relations?

• Definitely to set out a plan a lot earlier than I did, to take part in a lot more career building preparation skills such as interviews and assessment centres or to attend presentations by people from employment industries.
• To connect to career services to speak to people where ever they can.
• Connect on LinkedIn to see what career they want and start planning in the second year regarding post university in their second.

I had nobody to tell me how to navigate university so I took each university year as it came and celebrated the success of passing each year, without looking too far forward in the future.