Stephen Gaisford

Choosing Surrey 

The speed with which the Covid-19 pandemic gripped the world caught everyone off-guard and brought the global communications agency I'd launched (just weeks before) to a halt. The spread of the virus quickly prevented us from reaching our overseas clients. As a result, I couldn't work at all.

When contemplating abandoning my business to pursue a more stable career path, I became increasingly aware that my experience only got me so far with prospective employers. Evidence of high-level learning was becoming a differentiating factor to stand out among other high-calibre candidates. It's why, despite a wealth of international journalism and communications experience, I decided to go back to university.

That was not the only reason. Having now completed my MSc International Relations (International Intervention), I can give you multiple reasons why you would want to pursue a masters at the University of Surrey. Aside from enhancing your education on your CV, the learning experience offered by Surrey invites you to step outside of your comfort zone, gain new perspectives on important subjects, and engage in a shared learning experience with students from diverse backgrounds.

Life after Surrey

A twelve-month MSc is rewarding but also demanding. I made life more challenging by taking on a short project advising the Prime Minister's press team on communicating effectively during the pandemic, only to contract Covid-19 while working in Downing Street! Many on my course chose to do a placement instead of a dissertation, which is an excellent way to expose students to real-world experiences. The faculty has in-depth knowledge, which allows every student to get the most out of any course offered by the Department of Politics.

It can also be helpful for mature students, like myself, who already have a career. Soon after completing my studies, I threw myself into a communications project for COP26. Something I felt far more confident doing, having studied the complexities of global governance and written a dissertation on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Advice for students

If you're thinking about returning to university or enrolling in a higher education course to improve your career prospects, then go for it. I was lucky enough to have the University of Surrey on my doorstep, but I can't think of a better place to launch or kickstart a profession.

Discover our MSc International Relations (International Intervention) course.