William Astbury

BA International Relations (2017)

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter? 

The highlight of my time at Exeter University has to be the fact that I was able to spend three years in such a diverse and interesting environment. Over the course of the past three years I’ve met many different and fascinating people who have taught me a lot about myself and the world. Those are the people who make Exeter outstanding.

What will you miss the most about University? 

After university I'll miss being able to take advantage of the various opportunities Exeter has to offer, whether academically, with friends or in societies. The place allows you to wholeheartedly devote yourself to what you love - whatever that might be - and embraces you for it.

What did you enjoy about your particular degree programme? 

For me, the privilege to learn broadly and deeply about international relations and politics in general has been a pleasure. The sheer variety of interesting discussions I’ve had in and out of seminars has definitively been the best part of my degree. 

What advice would you give to current and future students? 

Work hard and throw yourself into your degree - there’s so much to learn! 

What are your plans now that you have graduated? 

I'm continuing on with a Masters degree at Exeter, and then after that I want to either carry on to do a PHD or use my IR experience and everything I've learned in Exeter to pursue a career in global politics, perhaps with an NGO or a think tank. Either way Exeter has prepared me perfectly for life after my degree and has given me innumerable good memories.