We recently caught up with Lalene Malik as part of our Alumni Stories series….

What did you study at Roehampton?

I studied BSc Sociology with a semester abroad from 2018-2021.

What have you done since leaving your Undergraduate at Roehampton?

Since leaving my Undergraduate at Roehampton, I am now doing my MA in Human Rights and International Relations and hoping to finish in 2023.

Do you have a favourite spot-on campus?

Ahhh- there are so many! Where do I start? My favourite spots on campus are The Union Bar, Southlands Reef, the Library (a dream building!), and the Library Cafe.

Do you belong to any sports clubs or societies at Roehampton?

I have enrolled on ISOC where we get weekly reminders about Friday prayers, or anything related to Islam.

How do you feel your time at Roehampton influenced your current career or mode of study?

My time at Roehampton influenced my current mode of study in many ways. First, the quality of teaching provided by my lecturers was excellent. They were all qualified within their field of study and aimed to pass on their knowledge to their students so that they could become independent and confident. The Academic Achievement Team were also helpful. Using this service, I am now confident in writing different assessment styles, from essays to reports to my final dissertation (the word that makes every student want to hide haha). Before coming to Roehampton, I knew nothing about writing assignments and essays at the university level, as I was the first of my siblings to start university. I have had almost every professor in my MA teach me during my BSc, which is another reason why I stayed here. Knowing my lecturers  teaching styles and how they transfer information to us, it was clear that I should stay at Roehampton and continue my studies.

If you had one piece of advice for current students, what would it be?

Time management. I cannot stress enough how important it is to be organised so that you have time for yourself, your friends and family, and of course your studies. Before starting university, I was told by my friends that time at university would go by in a FLASH! Of course, I did not believe them initially, as I always thought that time would go slowly. However, my eyes suddenly widened once I had my graduation ceremony, and I said, God, my friends were right. Yes, time will go FAST, so make it worth your time 🙂. 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I want to use my Master’s degree to work for a change in the world! Since I am a massive fan of travelling, I could travel anywhere in the world, wherever the plane takes me! I could see myself working for an NGO team, the NHS or even a law firm. 

Is there one person from your time at Roehampton that you find inspiring today?

One person from my time at Roehampton who I find inspiring today must be Jennifer Melvin. She was the convener for one of the modules I studied during my Master’s. Before even our first lecture with her, she announced that she had just returned from Maternity leave and was now ready to teach us. This inspired me as she was both teaching and looking after a baby.

Anything else you would like to share about your university experience?

I was lucky enough to be chosen for a study abroad that I undertook in my second semester in my second year at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington (UNCW) as part of my Sociology degree. 

During my exchange program, not only did I study abroad, but I had the chance to explore the area, meet new people (with whom I’ve become friends and still am), try out new foods that I’ve never tried before and explore New York City (which was a DREAM for me!). With this experience, I’ve become more confident and independent in taking risks that are needed in future experiences. 

If you’re thinking of a semester abroad, why not go for it? Not only will you enjoy this, but this will look good on your CV!