The department's reputation for research preceded it and I'm confident that no other university could offer the combination of expertise, world-class training and constant support that could match that of the Government & Public Policy academics and support staff.

I really enjoyed the opportunity to carve my own multidisciplinary path. My cohort were encouraged to pursue courses across history, law and politics and to discover our own areas of interest and speciality.

In terms of the quality of teaching at the university, it really is up there with the best. When speaking to different people along my journey, they always seem to recommend Strathclyde. I also had the opportunity to tailor the course to make it exactly what I wanted it to be, I like that about Strathclyde.

Coming from the education sector, I found the PGDE programme at Strathclyde offered a fantastic module in educational perspectives and policies (EPP). These not only stimulated my thinking but became the bulwark for understanding the context of education in Scotland.

The MSc was also backed by The Data Lab Innovation Centre and I was lucky enough to be awarded one of their scholarships for the programme this year, meaning they covered almost all my tuition fees. This really motivated me to accept my offer on the MSc programme as it reassured me I was on the right path, and that other people thought I would succeed!

Glasgow is a welcoming and liveable city! I have found a great community at the local climbing gym and through the university. I love living here so much I am planning on staying for a few years after I graduate.

The students in my programme hail from countries across four continents and each brings a unique academic or practical background to the class discussions. Many of the virtual activities have promoted intercultural exchanges and collaboration, which are invaluable opportunities in a programme that has a distinct focus on international relations.

One of the biggest draws for me was that I could do my degree in under a year here whereas in Canada a post-graduate degree in education is two years in nearly every university. I didn't want to go back to school for another two years, I felt my career was already underway and so Strathclyde's single year program was the only one that felt right to me.

The professors are a great support system, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. It’s hard to find highlights as I haven’t travelled to campus, but the professors have been an excellent and open resource to make the academic year feel as normal as possible.

For me, this course provides me an opportunity to learn more theories about the philosophy of education and explore broader thinking space.