Smashing Stereotypes Mathura

Smashing stereotypes: A future in Policy and Humanitarian Aid

After completing her A levels in English Lit (A*), History (A*), and Art (A*), Mathura ventured on to study the BA (Hons) History and Politics at Exeter University, further developing her passion for these subjects. Mathura would like to express her gratitude to Mr Taylor, Mr David, Ms Jackson and Mr Charlesworth, who she feels inspired her career direction.

Mathura has taken on a wealth of placements, locally and internationally to aid her career development. In an interview with our Head of Careers, Miss Kailey, Mathura talks in detail about the range of placements she has undertaken so far.

Tell us more about your internship at the Ministry of Justice

The Ministry of Justice Internship is an experience that I am incredibly grateful for. As we all know, finding placements is difficult and therefore, I was lucky to find this one. I completed this placement during my sandwich year, and afterwards undertook multiple other placements to fill the year. 

For the purpose of this internship, I was based at HM Courts and Tribunals, dealing with legal cases. My role was to process the cases, attach the relevant legal documents to each case and ensure all administrative tasks were completed before moving the case forward to other legal staff. I also had the opportunity to work in the probate department, dealing with the estates of people who are deceased. The entire experience was immensely interesting, and I got to learn a lot about how the legal system works. The best part about this internship was the fact that every single day was different, depending on the case in hand. No two days were the same.

Tell us more about your placement at the Afghanistan Central Asian Association

I am currently on placement at the Afghanistan Central Asian Association, doing policy and advocacy work. My role is to research and write briefs, for the purpose of influencing policy. I conduct research, which is provided to current MP’s. I am currently working on building relationships with the new Labour government, and keeping them informed on our current work on immigration policy- including the housing and healthcare package for refugees. We have also worked on probation policies for ex-prisoners to ensure that they don’t reoffend. 

Volunteering in Greece

This year, I will be volunteering in Greece- I’m so excited to do this. I will be working with an NGO (non-profit organisation, independent of the government) that deals with refugees. I am excited for this because firstly, I’m looking forward to coming out of my comfort zone in living abroad. I also want the opportunity to make a difference to refugees who are passing through countries to search for a better and safer life. I can’t wait learn about how aid companies help people in need.

How did you find out about these placements?

I found them whilst looking for a job. I approached the Exeter University careers department and asked for support. The department were great for application support and interview practice. For other students looking for placements like mine, I recommend LinkedIn and ww.brightnetwork.co.uk. 
 

What advice do you have for anyone else who is wanting to find insightful work experience opportunities?

It is important to utilise your personal and professional networks. Send employers a message, or be brave and make a phone call.  It doesn’t matter if you don’t get a reply, but you must make an effort to reach out as eventually, contacts will start to connect with you and will offer advice and information. 

Huge congratulations to you, Mathura on an exciting start to a career in policy and humanitarian aid. We look forward to seeing you grow and progress within this sector.

Any students wanting to connect with Mathura should book a virtual call in our Development Office.