Priyal Yadav

Why did you choose the University of Westminster?

I chose the University of Westminster after extensive research for my Master's degree. Westminster stood out to me as a place that fostered critical thinking and valued both creativity and insight. The course seemed well-curated, challenging, and exactly what I was looking for in a degree. In my communications with the student team, I felt supported and appreciated as an international student. The staff were helpful, respectful, and forthcoming in answering my questions, and speaking with them made me excited to start my journey at Westminster. Their professionalism and kindness left a strong first impression, and I knew I was joining an institution that valued all its students. Research also introduced me to the world-class facilities, the extensive Harrow Campus, and the experiences I could expect at Westminster. While in London completing another Master's degree, I visited the campus and immediately knew that my decision to study at Westminster later that same year was the right one.

How has your experience been studying in London?

London is exactly as transformative, cosmopolitan and entertaining as everyone imagines, if not more. My experience was both incredibly daunting and exciting. I was living away from family for the very first time, but in a city that makes one feel like they can be anything. The opportunities, the wonder, even fear sometimes, feel endless and cyclical, but it is an excellent lesson in adulthood. 

As cliché as it sounds, London can truly help you broaden your horizons because you are surrounded by people from different backgrounds, different walks of life, and varied experiences. Not to mention the sights, the nightlife, and all the culture the city can offer. Sometimes one trip across London can feel like travelling into a different world altogether!

Tell us about your course and what have you particularly enjoyed?

I enjoyed every aspect of my course. It was versatile, academically challenging, and combined theory with research and contemporary issues. This was incredibly helpful in allowing me to explore aspects of media such as globalisation, digital platforms, technological sovereignty and governance, and representation in media in a nuanced manner. I enjoyed that the course was academically rigorous, encouraging us to think critically about the relationship between media, culture, politics, and power within various international contexts. 

The diverse perspectives I was exposed to during the seminars and within the curriculum were another major highlight for me. Studying with peers from different countries and educational backgrounds made discussions richer and challenged my assumptions. I loved that the course also allowed us to pursue our own interests in greater depth through research and writing. 

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

I found the academic support as part of my studies to be helpful, engaging, and truly amazing! I don't think I could've gotten as much out of the degree without my professors and lecturers being as wonderful as they were. My endless questions, inquiries, and emails were always answered with patience, detail, and the best possible advice. Academic support during my course made me feel valued, supported, and confident in my ability to excel in the course.

Did you use the University's Careers and Employability Service? If yes tell us about your experience

I did make use of the Careers and Employability service. I got help for my CV, interviewing techniques, and also used it to apply for a lot of jobs. They were incredibly resourceful and kind in helping me ensure that I was putting my best foot forward and showcasing my best to prospective employers. I ended up getting my first part-time offer, which turned into full-time soon after university!    

Can you tell us about your current role and share a bit about your responsibilities?

At the moment, I am working as a freelance communications and writing professional, alongside teaching and developing independent research and commentary projects focused on media, governance, and technology. Much of this work builds on the research I started at Westminster and reflects my varied interests in digital governance, globalisation and policy. 

I am currently also preparing for a PhD, where I hope to explore what conversations around platform regulation and digital governance can reveal about global media, geopolitical influence and power. Prior to this, I worked as a Partnerships Manager at The Inventors in London, where I managed partnerships and communications. My role was very varied, involving stakeholder engagement and management, external communications, creating materials, training, and overseeing safeguarding.

How has your course prepared you for your current role and a career in your industry? 

My course played a central role in helping me understand how to approach media, politics, and communication. It has directly shaped how I think about future academic study. One of the greatest advantages I gained was learning to balance critical analysis with practical application. Whether I am creating communication materials, building partnerships, or writing about media and policy, I draw on the skills I developed during the course to think strategically, communicate clearly, and approach problems with both creativity and rigour. The interdisciplinary nature of the course continues to help me broaden my perspectives and shape my work and research.

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

My advice would be to conduct extensive research on the course that you are considering. While the university provides an amazing experience, the course must align with your expectations and interests. It is, of course, important that you engage with your coursework through independent study as much as possible to make the best of the course as it was intended. Westminster is diverse and full of unique experiences. Take advantage of all the resources that it has to offer; every seminar, networking event, the employability service, class discussion, cultural event and personal tutoring session is important. Speak to your professors, participate in class, and get the best out of the course.

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

Everything contributed to it - I've mentioned a lot above, but the support, the course, the rigour, everything contributed to making my experience delightful. It also helped that the halls were right next to the campus, that the library offered an extensive collection of materials for research, and that the cafes on campus were amazing. It is truly an experience that I would recommend to everyone.