I originally studied for a degree in Psychology in Australia and then came to the UK. Why the UK? Well, for as long as I can remember I have always had an interest in human rights and chose to study at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies because I had heard that the course was so excellent. I find the course very demanding which is good because it is so challenging and intellectually stimulating. I am also partially funded by a scholarship from the university and also through a personal loan. In particular, I love the UK because it makes Australia seem so small. It is easy to get out of London and visit other parts of the UK due to its smaller size. I am also very fond of London for its ethnic diversity and I'm taking full advantage of the arts and culture available that she didn't get whilst working out in the Pacific. The sorts of personal qualities you need to have to work in human rights are as follows; Passion, commitment, dedication and great strength as the course can take a great toll on you. My dream job would be to work in Australia on behalf of Oxfam or Amnesty International.

Mona Sadek,
M.A in the understanding and securing of Human Rights, one eyar course full-time

I did an original degree in Cairo in Microbiology then I worked for a few non-governmental organisations in Egypt. I became interested in working in human rights through doing voluntary work and decided to get a qualification to supplement this basic practical experience with an academic background. Why did I choose to study in the UK? Well, I chose the UK and the institute because of the course, as it is very unusual in its diversity and seemed to be the best course available. I love the course as it is very challenging and stimulating and there is a lot of variety in the subject matter. As for the UK, I love it as well - it is beautiful and very full of life. I live in Stoke Newington, which is great as there are many different types of shops and restaurants representing many different types of nationalities. I took out a loan to cover my course costs but I'm so interested in the subject matter that I think that it is worth it. In the future, I hope to go back to Cairo to work for a non-governmental organisation - maybe working an NGO in the Middle East. My dream job would involve working for an NGO abroad or back in Cairo or working for the International Committee or the Red Cross (ICRC). And the personal qualities required for the subject? I'd suggest passion, determination and the ability to not get discouraged to never lose sight of your goals.