Sam is a graduate from the MSc Diplomacy & International Security programme

Tell us a little bit about your background...

I completed my undergraduate degree in History and Politics at the University of Stirling. Although I had started first-year with just history, I began taking politics modules on the side and quickly recognised how well both disciplines complemented each other. In third-year, I was fortunate enough to study abroad in Prague for six months. This experience immersed me in fresh perspectives and new ideas on European security, significantly strengthening my interest in global affairs and pivoting my focus towards current politics.

What inspired you to study the MSc Diplomacy & International Security? What were the most enjoyable parts of your course?

After my time at Stirling I remained very unsure about potential career paths and decided that I wanted to continue with academia and begin to specialise on a subject I found interesting. Following on from my undergraduate work in counter-terrorism studies as well as a dissertation exploring cultural history I decided to embark on a postgraduate course that would enable me to focus on these topics and direct me towards a career in a related sector. The Diplomacy and International Security course immediately stood out as a multidisciplinary course that offered what I was looking for. The variety and depth in both the courses offered and practitioner events was laid out clearly and in detail that immediately made Strathclyde the most attractive option.

Tell us a little bit about engaging with diplomats and other practitioners...

Throughout the year, we were offered numerous opportunities to directly engage with the world of diplomacy and security. Regular practitioner events were a key highlight of the programme, featuring speakers such as former Ambassadors Leigh Turner and Lord Ricketts, as well as the German Consul, Christiane Hullmann, and EU diplomat, Joanna Goodburn. We were also fortunate enough to visit both Glasgow’s City Chambers and the British Embassy in Paris. These experiences offered incredibly valuable insights into how diplomacy operates in practice and brought what we had learnt in the classroom to life as we applied our knowledge to real-world contexts. Importantly, we were afforded plenty of opportunities to ask our own questions to practitioners' own experiences, whose insights helped to make sense of what to expect from a career in diplomacy.

Tell us a little bit about your experience on placement...

As part of the work placement module, I had the opportunity to work with the European Movement in Scotland group for a semester. Although I was tasked with completing a main project across several weeks, the most rewarding aspect of the experience was being invited to help out with several interesting events during the semester. For example, one week I had the chance to help interview the MP for Arbroath, Stephen Gethins, about the UK’s role in the war in Ukraine. Here I was able to ask my own questions as well as determine the sound bite for the final article. Additionally, I took part in running an EMiS event at Holyrood Parliament during Europe Day celebrations, where we hosted a number of MSPs and other European delegates. This was a fascinating experience that has since helped me to understand what to expect from the world of work. I recommend applying if you have the opportunity.

What specialist knowledge or professional skills have you developed whilst studying the course?

The key takeaway for me has been the importance of public speaking. Whether it was meeting politicians, asking for advice from practitioners, or giving presentations in class, the ability to communicate with others and convey an argument clearly has consistently emerged as a vital skill for any aspiring diplomat. The course provided numerous opportunities to strengthen these capabilities. For example, I particularly enjoyed classes in which we simulated historic events and delegated an actor to be represented by each group as an effective way of facilitating debate. These activities really helped to foster teamwork, discussion, and strong connections in the class that extended well beyond the classroom.

What do you think of the support available?

Support throughout the programme was outstanding. A diverse range of lecturers, each with their own expertise and enthusiasm for the subject, helped to keep classes engaging and interesting throughout the year. Feedback for assignments was particularly well done, with markers consistently providing detailed and constructive comments that made it clear how I could improve my work. Additionally, tutors were approachable and easy to contact, creating an encouraging learning environment that supported academic progress and personal development.

What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?

I have finished my year at Strathclyde feeling far more confident in what my next steps will be. The course has pushed me to considerably develop both my soft and specialised skills; I have noticed a marked improvement in my writing, research, and speaking abilities. I had never considered working in the field of diplomacy before beginning this course, however, the variety of opportunities I have been able to take advantage of has opened doors and made a career in the sector a far more realistic prospect going forward.

What would be your advice for someone considering applying for this course?

My advice would be to jump at every opportunity that comes your way. While classes and assignments are important, the programme truly comes to life when you are engaging with former diplomats or visiting a working embassy. The year passes quickly, and before you know it, you’ll be submitting your final dissertation, so make the most of it. Embrace the events, discussions, and other activities on offer; they are not only incredibly rewarding but also provide insights and connections that will stay with you long after graduation.