Q&As with Christina Tougias a Master's Student in Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding

1.  Hi! Could you please briefly walk us through your academic journey that brought you to Durham University? What motivated you to pursue your postgraduate degree at Durham after completing your undergraduate studies in the US? 

After having completed my Bachelor’s degree in the US during the Covid-19 pandemic with disruptions to study abroad opportunities, I decided to pursue a Master’s in the UK with hopes of being exposed to new perspectives, people and culture. It was a bonus too that Master degrees in the UK are only one year, as opposed to the frequent two years in the US, making it more affordable. During my undergrad, I studied International Relations, and was particularly interested in my conflict prevention and resolution classes, prompting me to search for degrees that specifically honed in on such topics. Upon researching various programs, Durham University stood out, not only academically with the MSc in Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding, but with the campus-feel and the college system as well. I felt as if I could see myself feeling at home there, despite being a continent away.  

2.  How did your experience studying at Durham’s School of Government and International Affairs (SGIA) compare to your expectations, especially coming from an US education background? 

Before starting at Durham, I knew to expect differences in the education system, having spoken to current students about this topic and with my interest in trying a new education system, but there were still aspects that surprised me. The first was the amount of in-person class time compared to independent study, since my classes at Durham only met once a week for one hour, which differed from the longer and more frequent meetings in the US. There is more emphasis on independent study in the UK, something that took time adjusting to. Another major difference that I had not fully expected was that, in most of my courses, only one or two assessments would decide my final grade, whereas in the US, a variety of assignments and class participation would be considered. Aside from differences in teaching and assessments styles, much of SGIA is what I expected in terms of the course content, opportunities and administration. 

Overall, my experience at Durham met my expectations, but I would advise prospective students to do their research and see if they think the differences in academic styles would be suitable for them since each person is different! 

3. What aspects of Durham’s SGIA, such as the international focus or opportunities for fieldwork, stood out to you during your postgraduate studies?

I was largely drawn to Durham and the MSc in Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding because of the numerous opportunities offered in terms of fieldwork and practical skills. One example would be the field trip to Armenia, which was a unique experience where the classroom mixed with the real world. For me, it was important to learn how to apply the theoretical material from the classroom to practical experiences and situations. That’s why I also appreciated the Humanitarian Intervention Capstone Exercise, which provided insight from MSF professionals into what a job in the humanitarian sector might entail. Furthermore, my Conflict Mediation course stood out as we practiced mediation through role play and through collaborative activities. Lastly, in Armenia we were exposed to meetings with the British Embassy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Council of Europe, the International Committee of the Red Cross and so many more important organizations, which were unforgettable experiences.

 4. How do you think Durham’s emphasis on independent research and critical thinking has shaped your approach to understanding global political challenges? 

I think Durham’s emphasis on independent research and critical thinking has challenged me to dig deeper and grow in my researching capabilities, especially in relation to my dissertation in which I learned to trust myself with my newfound independence, though it could be hard at times. I enjoyed discussing global political challenges with professors and students of diverse backgrounds and under the UK education system, which provided new perspectives in of itself as well.  

 5. What advice would you give to US students considering Durham for their postgraduate studies, especially in terms of academic rigor and overall student experience? 

I would advise US students to embrace the differences, the adventure and the opportunities studying at Durham and in the UK have to offer! Get involved, join clubs and societies, attend lectures and take advantage of your time abroad. I would especially suggest taking part in experiences that we do not typically have in the US, like attending balls and formals. I worked at a fish and chips restaurant while in Durham, which also allowed me to feel connected to the community and I highly recommend. In terms of academics, I would suggest trying to structure your time in a way that works best for you since there is much independence. Make sure to save enough time to write essays, especially since they are worth so much of your grade and the first batch are due around the winter holidays. In the US, exams typically finish before Christmas and New Year’s, differing from the UK’s exams in January, so I would recommend being aware of the academic schedule so you don’t get blindsided. Lastly, I learned through my dissertation experience that it can take a lot of time to gain access to materials, archives, libraries and sources, so I would recommend considering this as soon as you can so you are not pressed for time towards the end of your dissertation. Finally, I recommend taking advantage of any opportunities to learn from other students, professors, professionals and community members around you, especially since one year goes by quick!