Leila Dara

BA Politics, Philosophy and Economics with Study Abroad (2018)

What did you enjoy about your degree programme?

The thing about PPE is it allows you to see any issue in three ways, because each discipline teaches you a different way of approaching a situation, giving you a more nuanced understanding. For example, I think that economics can be quite clinical and overly-rational, but then engaging with politics helps you look at the social implications, and philosophy the normative aspects. I think that this interaction between the three disciplines leads to a really well-rounded perspective. It also allows you to kind of shape your degree to your interests because of the vast number of modules open to you, which is useful for students that know their general interests, but not their specific passions, to try things out.

Tell us about the award you have received. What does this award mean to you?

So I received the Victor Wiseman Politics Prize for the highest undergraduate degree result for Politics at Streatham. It means a lot to me because my time at Exeter has been quite tumultuous in terms of both personal and academic life, and there have been a lot of times where I was convinced I wouldn't be able to get the First I wanted, let alone do well enough to get a prize! It is a kind of embodiment of all the evenings in the library where I desperately wanted to go home but kept working anyway, and shows that it's easy to overthink and convince yourself you aren't doing well, when perseverance will reward you!

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

In my third year I studied abroad at Waseda University in Tokyo. It was terrifying moving to the other side of the world, but was also the most amazing year of my life without a doubt. The culture and beautiful scenery completely blew me away, and I made some amazing friends. Also, I got really good at making sushi which is always ideal!

What will you miss the most about University?

I'll miss the constant challenging of one another and lively debate/discussion that has been the norm between my friends and I, especially in this final year. I think it is easy to be passive and not engage with current events and abstract ideas, and being at university encourages you to constantly challenge your own biases and assumptions. I think that leads to a lot of personal growth!

What advice would you give to current and future students?

Make time for a balanced life with uni, work and socialising, or you'll go mad! Also, try to make friends with some locals - the university echo chamber is fun but it's good to have people who aren't as maddened by the library as you are. They also know all the best spots in Devon to explore!

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I'll be taking a year out to travel, volunteer and chill out a bit, then I'll hopefully be starting a Masters in Gender Studies in September 2019!