Hello everyone, my name is Yvonne, and I’m currently studying a Masters in International Relations (IR) at the University of York. I also proudly serve as the Student Representative for my cohort.
My background is extensively international
I have Nigerian roots, was born and raised in Spain, and now reside in the UK. Growing up across different cultures naturally shaped my worldview and enabled me to speak several languages, including Spanish, English, Edo, and a little French. This multicultural upbringing drew me towards wanting to understand how the world connects.
From a BSc in Psychology to a Masters in International Relations
When I began my undergraduate studies, my previous university encouraged students to explore various disciplines. I took a minor in IR during my first year, but I ultimately graduated with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Psychology. Little did I know that my brief introduction to IR in that very first year would eventually become the focus of my Masters degree!
I fell in love completely with IR. To me, there’s a fascinating overlap between psychology and international relations. Questioning what we observe, what we know, and whether our perceptions reflect reality. I chose this path because I want to represent what justice looks like, understand the complexities of migration law, and explore the psychological influences and impact on a global scale.
Expanding My Mindset: The Academic Experience
The course here at York brings global international politics to life through various themes, enhancing my critical thinking and constantly challenging my current knowledge through the study of different theorists.
In my first semester, I built a strong foundation by taking:
This semester, I am broadening my focus even further with:
Each of these modules encourages me to analyse complex global issues thoughtfully and challenges me to view the world from multiple perspectives.
Community and Life at York
Deciding where to study my Masters was a significant decision. I was attracted to the University of York because of its excellent reputation and its esteemed Russell Group status.
Apart from academics, my favourite aspect of the York experience has been the people. As the IR Student Representative, I have had the privilege of helping to foster a vibrant community of students from many different countries and cultures. I absolutely love learning from my peers. We share our unique backgrounds, debate global issues, and support each other.
It’s not all just serious academic debates, however. For example, I attended a campus comedy night, which was a fantastic opportunity to mix with students from different departments and year groups. Casual events like this allow for great interaction and exploration outside the classroom.
Preparing for the Future
Looking ahead, I aim for a career in a think tank, or as a diplomat or politician.
My background in psychology combined with this Masters in IR is an ideal stepping stone for this ambition. Ultimately, politics and global affairs revolve around human behaviour, understanding why individuals and nations act as they do, and designing policies that influence and guide that behaviour. For me, choosing York wasn’t just about studying politics. It was about finding a place where my diverse background is an asset and where I can prepare to make a meaningful impact in global affairs.
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