What is your name and what are you studying?
My name is Charity. I’m currently studying International Law, Ethics and Politics. I’m based in the UK.
Questions
Tell us about yourself and your journey to postgraduate study.
I grew up in Ireland and moved to the south of England when I was 15. I knew I wanted to do an undergraduate degree but I didn’t think about any further study after that. I completed my Bachelors degree in Philosophy here at UoB, which eventually got me thinking about pursuing postgraduate study. At first, I was put off the idea of a masters degree because my undergraduate degree wasn’t as fulfilling as I thought it would be.
What was your motivation to pursue postgraduate study?
I wanted to do something interdisciplinary and in more depth. I also wanted to take my time and really immerse myself in the content, which is why I chose to do it part time. I have time to invest in my hobbies and other commitments, as well as focusing on my degree at a much more manageable pace. I also work alongside my degree as an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador. I knew I wanted another qualification but I wasn’t ready for a PhD yet. I felt like the world of work wasn’t where I wanted to be yet as I still wanted to do more with myself, such as completing an internship or volunteering.
Why did you apply to become an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador?
I became an EDI Ambassador in 2022 because I wanted to have an outlet to voice issues with educational institutions and EDI. I wanted to highlight the voices of those that need to be listened to. It was also something that I was interested in because it is important to my everyday life and those around me. I have been involved in various activities for the enrichment and development of underrepresented students, with the aim of engaging the wider student community about EDI and how it applies to everyone, not just those from underrepresented backgrounds. It doesn’t feel like work because it’s something I’m truly passionate about. It’s an area I’m considering pursuing as a career.
Why do you think EDI is important?
EDI is especially important in higher education as students should be aware about how it applies to them and those around them. They can take this knowledge into the workplace to recognize what an inclusive and diverse environment really looks like. It’s important to have the confidence to speak up if they feel as though something isn’t
right.