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What have you been up to since you graduated?
Since completing my degree in 2019, I've been working with UNICEF Türkiye as an Education Officer. My work focuses on helping vulnerable children access quality, inclusive education, including around one million school-age refugee children and those affected by the 2023 earthquakes.
What was your ambition for your career when you started at UEA? Did you have a specific career path in mind?:
Before starting my master's, I was working on expanding refugee children's access to vocational education. I wanted to deepen my knowledge in this area, so during my studies, I focused on refugee education and wrote my dissertation on this topic. My goal was to continue working in the humanitarian sector, especially on improving education opportunities for refugee children. After graduating, I joined UNICEF Türkiye in exactly this area, which aligned with the path I had in mind when I started at UEA.
Tell me about your experiences studying at UEA...
I learned about UEA while researching the best development studies programmes in the UK for my Chevening Scholarship application. The university's strong academic reputation and beautiful campus played a big part in my decision. Once I started my studies, the supportive academic staff, welcoming campus environment, and diverse student community confirmed that I had made the right choice and made my experience at UEA truly meaningful.
In your career what key tasks & skills are involved on a day-to-day basis, and what are/have been the most rewarding/challenging aspects?:
In my role as an Education Officer at UNICEF, my daily work includes coordinating education programmes with government and NGO partners, managing non-formal and early childhood education activities, monitoring field implementation, analysing data, and helping remove barriers that prevent vulnerable children, especially refugee and earthquake-affected children, from accessing school. This requires skills in coordination, communication, problem-solving, partnership management, and being adaptable in fast-changing contexts.
The most rewarding part is seeing children who were previously out of school finally access education and thrive. The biggest challenge is working in a constantly shifting environment, such as after the 2023 Türkiye earthquakes, where needs are high, resources limited, and solutions require strong collaboration and persistence.
Has your degree influenced your career?
My degree has significantly influenced my career. The courses at UEA DEV provided both theoretical and practical knowledge in the humanitarian and development fields. The technical understanding of refugee education, along with skills in research, collaboration, and communication that I developed during my studies and dissertation, boosted my confidence during job applications and interviews. My MA degree played a key role in securing my current position.
What personal or professional achievement are you most proud of?:
I am proud to have been accepted as a Chevening Scholar, to study at one of the leading universities in development studies, and to graduate with distinction. I am also proud of my work supporting the most vulnerable children to access education, which is truly meaningful to me.
What were your experiences of Norwich as a city? Is there anything in particular that you miss or have fond memories of?:
Norwich was a lovely city, and I had a very positive experience living there. I especially miss strolling through its historic streets and enjoying time with friends in its restaurants and pubs.
Would you recommend studying at UEA? Why?:
Norwich was a lovely city, and I had a very positive experience living there. I especially miss strolling through its historic streets and enjoying time with friends in its restaurants and pubs.
Is there any advice you would give to current students, wishing to follow a similar career path to you?:
I would suggest making the most of every moment at UEA by enjoying the campus and exploring Norwich. Engaging with students from diverse backgrounds and with academic staff who have extensive theoretical and practical experience is very enriching and offers valuable learning opportunities.
What is next for you?:
I would like to continue my career in the humanitarian sector, supporting children in different contexts. I am also considering expanding my knowledge by pursuing a PhD in development studies.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about yourself or your UEA experience?:
My time at UEA was truly transformative. The supportive learning environment, inspiring academic staff, and interactions with students from around the world shaped both my professional skills and personal growth. I am grateful for the opportunities I had there, which have had a lasting impact on my career in the humanitarian and development sector.