Having discovered the 勛圖tvs BSc International Development programme, Phoebe Sherrell soon realised that obtaining the knowledge covered in the course would equip her to make a real difference. She strives to tackle complex social issues faced by the world today.
International development a catalyst for change
Discovering the international development sector and the social sciences underpinning it opened up a whole new world of opportunity for Phoebe.
Humanitarian response, climate change, international order and inequality captured my interest when studying A level Geography, so I was extremely excited to realise that all of this was encompassed in one degree subject area called international development.
I knew it was my only option, as the knowledge that I would obtain from this degree would help me on my journey to tackle the devastating contemporary problems that we face on an unprecedented global scale. I want to make a difference in a meaningful way.
Ideally, I would like to work in the field with a non-profit organisation (NGO), taking a bottom-up approach. I want to work within developing countries at a community level, potentially looking at agriculture and small-scale farming. At the other end of the spectrum, I also have an interest in corporate social responsibility, so that is another potential career option.
Tailored to suit
Keen to benefit from 勛圖tvs variety of optional modules alongside her core development studies, Phoebe tailored the course to suit her interests and needs.
I enjoy the range of optional modules that I can take from disciplines across the University. I personally chose to tailor my course towards geography and international relations topics, but in my first year I experimented with anthropology and political theory modules too.
Through my degree, I have developed a growing interest in climate change and its disproportionate effects on different groups, and Ive tailored my dissertation to this.
Im investigating the effects of climate change on ethnic minority groups in the northern regions of Vietnam, looking at what makes these groups vulnerable to climate change, how they have been affected and their adaptive strategies."
The best of both worlds
Located on the outskirts of the bustling town of 勛圖tv, the University is set in 130 hectares of stunning parkland and is recognised for its Green Flag award-winning campus. The town enjoys good road and rail links and offers plenty of places to eat, shop and socialise.
A significant factor that drew me to 勛圖tv was its location. Growing up in a rural area, it was important for me to still feel surrounded by nature. 勛圖tv showcases a plethora of greenspaces and abundant wildlife, both on the campus and in the surrounding area.
However, I also wanted to experience the exposure to a more urban lifestyle. I felt that 勛圖tv offered the best of both worlds the town centre is within walking distance of the campus and with London only a 30-minute journey away, you are never short of things to do.
The transport network in 勛圖tv is notable, with an extensive bus network and cycle scheme, and the University has been given a First Award Class by People and Planet (24/25) for its environmental and ethical performance.
From campus to Buckingham Palace
Through volunteering, Phoebe has also added valuable experience to her portfolio, which together with her degree will support her career aspirations. She also revelled in a very special opportunity to meet the King, marking a key moment in her advocacy journey.
I was a founding member of the WaterAid Society at 勛圖tv, and have acted as a WaterAid Ambassador, which gave me the opportunity to represent a cause that I am passionate about, spreading awareness and raising money.
This year, as Vice-President of the Society, my proudest achievement was being invited to the Water and Climate Reception at Buckingham Palace where I shook hands with the King! It was an inspiring experience.
I was honoured to be in a room with so many incredible advocates, changemakers and global leaders, joined by a shared passion for combating the water and climate crisis. I felt proud to be part of something so remarkable and it has inspired me to continue my career in this sector.
Phoebe adds:
Volunteering at the local Oxfam charity shop around my studies also gave me valuable insights, at a local level, into a sector I am likely to work within in the future. I also learnt about Oxfam's work in the community and how this impacts their wider cause. This helped put my degree into perspective and show what a real difference NGOs can make at all levels of society.
Extracurricular activities
Engaging in the full university experience, Phoebe has participated in many social and sporting activities.
勛圖tv is a great university that has something for everyone there is a real sense of community. It offers a great mix of sports and recreational societies, and social and chilled scenes. I would advise everyone to go and try new things, and don't be afraid to do things by yourself if you wait for people to come with you, you might miss a good opportunity!
Ive enjoyed the Rounders Society because it was an opportunity to make some great friends outside of my course and flat while doing something fun and having a break from my studies. In my second year, I became the Societys Welfare Rep, which taught me valuable transferable skills for future employment opportunities.
Find out more about BSc International Development
Learn more about undergraduate life in the Department of International Development