Jean Charles Munongo

Can you tell us about your current role at the United Nations?

I am currently an intern with the UN Network on Migration (UNNM) Secretariat at the International Organization for Migration (IOM) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. The Secretariat coordinates progress made by member states and partners on the Global Compact on Migration (GCM), which was endorsed at the first International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) in 2022 at the UN General Assembly in New York.

My role is focused on supporting preparations for the next IMRF. I help with data collection, reviewing migration-related policies, and engaging with UN agencies, member state representatives and civil society organisations involved in implementing the GCM. The aim is to contribute to ensuring safe, orderly, and regular migration for all.

How did the course prepare you for your current role?

My entire experience at the University of Westminster prepared me for this opportunity, something I never imagined would be possible while still a student. The Diplomacy and Global MA course gave me a strong foundation in global affairs, and helped me develop key skills in communication, data analysis, and policy writing. The crisis simulations and policy brief exercises were especially valuable, as was the leadership experience I gained through the African Affairs Think Tank society.

In just one year, Westminster helped me completely transform my career direction, and now I’m working towards the career I’ve always dreamed of.

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

After completing my undergraduate studies in international relations and development, I wanted a closer experience of diplomacy, foreign affairs and international organisations. During my research into a master’s programme that would suit my ambitions, I came across several interesting options. Most programmes offered a knowledge-centred experience; however, the course at the University of Westminster combined academic learning with practical experience throughout the year. It was a no-brainer that the Diplomacy and Global Politics MA was the one.

How has your experience been studying in London?

One word to describe it would be “Exquisite”! London is always busy throughout the year, but I’m convinced that it’s the people you share the experience with that make it truly memorable. My classmates took the experience to another level. From laughter to endless debates on foreign policy, diplomacy and development, and exchanges with lecturers, I truly owe it to them for making my student experience in London incredible.

What have you particularly enjoyed about your course?

Studying diplomacy was not only about theories and concepts, although those are important, nor was it mostly about the Vienna Conventions and international law. The course also highlighted practical aspects of diplomacy and gave me the chance to practise my diplomatic skills and apply my theoretical knowledge. This training provided me with the skills I now use in my current role at the United Nations.

The Diplomacy and Global Politics MA also introduced us to advanced negotiation theory and offered opportunities to hone our negotiation skills through simulated scenarios involving crises, conflict resolution, trade disputes and complex environmental negotiations. We were able to familiarise ourselves with the diplomatic world, even as students, through visits to High Commissions, Embassies, think tanks and NGOs, as well as exchanges with ambassadors and diplomats.

How have you found academic support as part of your studies?

At the University of Westminster, I found people who believed in my dreams and ambitions even more than I did. The support from my Course Leader, Dr Frands Pedersen, and other teaching staff was key in building my confidence and equipping me with the skills needed to enter a competitive job market. This is what Westminster is about: supporting your ambitions and opening new doors.

Are there any stand-out facilities associated with your course?

The magnificent Regent Campus! In the heart of London, near Oxford Circus, it was the campus to be at, in my opinion. It has a café, a gym, study spaces, and the infamous Fyvie Hall, where many major events take place. It is also close to the Cavendish Campus, another outstanding campus near the BT Tower.

Tell us about your experience of using the University Careers and Employability Service

Incredible! The University Careers and Employability Service offers fantastic support and helps students navigate a very competitive job market. Their sessions on setting up a LinkedIn account, tailoring your CV, and preparing for interviews were extremely helpful. You can’t imagine how a simple session can open your mind to a wider perspective and understanding of the job market.

In addition, the Diplomacy and Global Politics MA course runs a bespoke Policy Skills Lab (led by an international diplomat), where students learn and practise policy-advice writing, public-outreach writing, as well as job application writing and interview skills.

Tell us about any activities that you have undertaken outside of your course

Taking part in student societies was an exciting part of my time at Westminster. Our Course Leader encouraged us to get involved, lead, or even set up societies to practise diplomacy and gain leadership experience. The Global Diplomacy Initiative, the African Affairs Think Tank, the European Affairs Institute and the Tibet Society were all founded by students on the Diplomacy and Global Politics MA. There are so many opportunities to gain valuable professional skills simply by joining a society committee.

And, of course, the MA trip to Belgium, which included visits to the European Commission, various EU institutions, NATO, and several NGOs and think tanks, was an incredibly fun and educational experience.

What would your advice be to someone considering studying at Westminster?

Get involved in something! Talk about your aspirations with your Course Leader, look out for events and opportunities shared by email or mentioned by lecturers or other students. Many people have contacts in organisations or the political world outside the University. Only here, at the University of Westminster, can you go from 0 to 100 in a couple of months!

What's the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student?

The student body. The endless debates with classmates outside campus until dark, the support of teaching staff, and the classmates who become friends after working together on projects. It was a truly memorable experience that contributed so much to my future career.

What was the most surprising or unexpected aspect of your Westminster experience?

What surprised me most was how the University and staff draw on their networks to help students reach their goals, especially those who truly want to make the most of their time at university. I am proud to say that I am now working at the UN IOM Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, as an intern at the UN Network on Migration Secretariat, while finalising my dissertation. Only the University of Westminster empowers its students this strongly.

Your Thoughts

Before the course, I never would have believed how much the Diplomacy and Global Politics MA could change my life and bring me closer to my dreams and ambitions. In one year, Westminster changed everything for me. To students interested in the programme, I say: an opportunity is like a picture - just take it!