Students from the University of Westminster studying Media, Psychology, and Politics and International Relations spent four days in New York City as part of a United Nations (UN) Awareness tour. The experience provided students with valuable insights that aligned with their academic subjects and themes related to global development.
Organised by the Democratic Education Network (DEN) and supported by the University and its Global Engagement team, this immersive educational trip aimed to establish connections between classroom learning and actual real-world situations. The main attraction of the visit included a guided tour and participation at the UN Headquarters, where students received briefings and asked questions to UN personnel while observing the practical implementation of international diplomacy and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The students visited different neighbourhoods of New York to observe how local sustainability practices operated outside the UN building. They also observed how local action connects to global challenges through their visit to the revitalised High Line green infrastructure and grassroots environmental initiatives in Brooklyn.
Students documented their experiences through blogs and a short film during the trip to express their individual thoughts and shared educational discoveries. Grace Villagomez-Akre, Psychology BSc Honours student, said: “This trip made me realise how interconnected we all are. Walking through the city that hosts the world gave me a sense of purpose, not just as a student, but as a global citizen.”
Lucrezia Zito, Digital Media, Public Relations and Advertising BA Honours student, commented: “The UN is a place where ideas spark change. Being there was both inspiring and humbling, and it reminded me that young voices must be present, not just to observe, but to contribute to the conversations that shape our world.”
Suheyla Coskun, Politics and International Relations BA Honours student, added: “New York was an incredible experience, one that taught me much about human nature, the global agenda, and the intricate roles people play in shaping societies.”
Dr Farhang Morady, Academic Director of the DEN and organiser of the trip, reflected: “This immersive experience encouraged students to think globally, act locally and promote the values of justice, equality and sustainability.”
This trip directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education, 10: Reduced Inequalities and 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Read more reflective blogs from students in the DEN’s online magazine Inside Westminster.
Watch a video about the trip on the DEN’s YouTube channel.
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