Diyara Demir Summa Cum Laude in Human Rights and Humanitarian Action

One thing I came to realise is that success at PSIA can be measured in many ways. Grades are one indicator, but so are the questions you learn to ask, the perspectives you gain, and the people you learn from. For me, curiosity was the most important driver. PSIA is academically demanding, and it is easy to become focused on deadlines and performance. Approaching each course with genuine curiosity made learning feel less like an obligation and more like an opportunity. It also helped me remain open to ideas beyond my own field of study and to appreciate the different experiences and viewpoints of my classmates.

One of the most valuable aspects of my experience was learning from lecturers who combined academic expertise with substantial professional experience. Their teaching consistently connected theory to practice, offering insight into how international affairs, humanitarian action, and policymaking unfold beyond the classroom. Equally important was studying alongside classmates from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds. Those discussions challenged my assumptions, broadened my perspective, and reminded me that complex global issues rarely have simple answers. I believe that ability to think across disciplines and engage constructively with different viewpoints will remain valuable throughout my career.

Make the most of everything PSIA has to offer beyond the classroom. Attend events, engage with guest speakers, and do not underestimate the value of conversations with your peers. Some of the most meaningful learning happens outside formal lectures. Looking back, I will remember not only the courses I took but also the remarkable people I met friends and colleagues whose knowledge, experiences, and generosity continually challenged and inspired me. They shaped my time at PSIA just as much as the curriculum did. At the same time, do not lose hope, even, and especially in a world that is constantly changing and can at times feel overwhelming. Let those very changes fuel your curiosity rather than diminish it. Stay curious, invest in those relationships, remain committed to your values, and remember to enjoy the experience along the way.