Yeukai Rukundu
Studying International Relations at the University of Glasgow has placed me between two meaningful spaces: my home country, Zimbabwe, and my academic life in Scotland.
Being an international student has allowed me to experience global politics not only through textbooks, but through everyday life, connection, and reflection. Adapting to life in Scotland has been both enriching and transformative. From learning to understand different accents to settling into the rhythm of life in Glasgow, each experience has contributed to my personal growth.
During the festive season, I particularly enjoyed visiting the Christmas market at St Enoch Square. The lights, music, food stalls, and shared sense of celebration offered a warm and welcoming way to experience Christmas away from home and helped me feel more connected to the city. While building a life here, my connection to Zimbabwe remains central to who I am and to my academic interests. Many of the questions that shape my research and policy interests are rooted in the social and political realities of my home country.I am looking forward to visiting Zimbabwe during the Easter break, both to spend time with my family and to support my dissertation research by engaging more closely with the context that inspires my work.
Being part of an international academic community has shown me the value of studying across cultures gaining perspective, developing adaptability, and growing in confidence. These experiences continue to shape my sense of purpose and my future academic ambitions.
To fellow students, especially those studying far from home, I would say this: progress does not always look loud or dramatic. Sometimes it requires reflection, persistence, and showing up again with purpose.
