Student spotlights - Foundations of Diplomacy

Foundations of Diplomacy spotlight: Vignesh Ashok

Building on the analytical skills of an engineering background, this talented alumnus of our Foundations of Diplomacy course will pursue a Master’s degree and a future career in peace and conflict diplomacy

‘Having been brought up in a protective and traditional Indian family, I did not get to choose what I studied at university. The silver lining was that I was given the freedom to choose where I studied, and I chose a Bachelor of Engineering programme at the National University of Singapore.

‘During the four years that I spent studying engineering, I explored my real passion: conflict diplomacy. I took up as many courses as I could in the Department of Political Science. It was there that I first learned of the ‘Foundations of Diplomacy’ Course at Oxford University’s Department for Continuing Education. I applied for this course after graduating and was delighted to be accepted.

‘The course in diplomacy was not an end in itself but rather a means for me to adapt the technical and analytical knowledge that I had gained from my B.Eng toward the pursuit of a Masters degree in Peace and Conflict Studies. The unending support that I received from tutors and course coordinators alike helped me successfully to apply for and gain a place on the M.Litt in Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of St Andrews.

‘What made life in Oxford different was the unfettered access to knowledge and opportunity, both within the course and at the University. I capitalised on the “Oxford Experience” by joining as many student societies as possible. In the span of a single year I worked as deputy editor of a student newspaper, represented the University in several debating tournaments (both within and outside the UK), presented papers at various symposia and, most importantly, developed friendships that I’m certain will last a lifetime.

‘Throughout this process, my tutors never hesitated to help me overcome every hurdle, no matter how large. For this, I am truly indebted to the Department for Continuing Education.

‘My two biggest achievements in the past year? The honour of being awarded the Sir John Johnson Prize for outstanding academic achievement; and the degree to which my outlook on life and my career path has matured. I doubt I would have received the same degree of encouragement, support and attention from any other course at any other university.’

In July, Vignesh added to his growing list of achievements by winning the 2010 Tilbury House Summer British Parliamentary Open Debating Championship and receiving the Best Speaker Award. The Department wishes every future success to this talented and enthusiastic student!