Understanding the International System

• Name: Sam Davis
• Age: 30
• Workplace: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT)
• Study programme: International Relations Master
• Completed studies at NMBU: June 2019

Tell us about your current job

I am a Development Project Coordinator. I help to manage New Zealand's international development projects. This includes contract review & management, project budget forecasting and providing specialist support in MFAT's aid management software. I work with colleagues in Wellington and across our international posts to deliver the impact of New Zealand's development programme.

I got the job by first seeing it on the Ministry's vacancies page, and then approaching people I knew who worked there to have coffee with them. I also met with the hiring manager prior to the interview, which I think helped to give them an idea of who I was and why I wanted to work for the Ministry.

Why did you choose to study at NMBU?

The International Relations programme at NMBU offers a good balance of sound theoretical approaches, a variety of wider specialist topics and academic staff with specialised knowledge across the IR discipline. The international dimension to the programme, most noticeable in the student body, was another big draw card.

I was lucky enough to visit the university before I began my studies there. I found the staff friendly and approachable, and really liked the campus and student culture the university offered.

How is your education applicable to your job?

Having a base understanding of the international system and the role of different actors helps me identify the relationships that exist in the projects I am involved with. I like to think that having written a masters thesis has generally helped my planning, time management and delivery ability.

The most important thing I learned from being a student was how to deal with adversity, improve my self-resilience and how to accept constructive feedback.

How did you experience being a student at NMBU?

I really enjoyed my time as a student at NMBU, and have fond memories of Ås. My programme was interesting and engaging, and I made some great friends that I am still in touch with. The student life on campus was another highlight, and I would encourage any future international students to really get into the student culture at NMBU. It has something for everyone!

What further career plans do you have?

I find the international development sector really rewarding, and hope to continue furthering my career in this area. I want to work directly with communities in developing countries where many of these projects take place, and to help play a role in ensuring local needs, voices and ways of knowing are placed at the forefront.

Any tips for students who want to work within your field?

There are two things I would do. First, look out for internship opportunities in the sector that you want to work in, or join student associations that are active in that space. And then, look to link your research project or thesis to field of work or geographic area you'd like to work in one day. And if you do well, see if you can get professionals from that area to have a look at your research work - it might lead to a job opportunity!