Discussion with Durham students revolves around the career experiences of the ex-British diplomat, Ian Proud
In a recent career talk and workshop, former British diplomat Ian Proud offered insights into the highs and lows of diplomatic life, as well as career opportunities for History graduates.
On 27 November, students from Durham University's History Department and School of Modern Languages and Cultures had the opportunity to engage with Ian Proud in a foreign policy workshop. The event, which was designed to provide students with valuable insights into government foreign services and international careers, covered topics such as diplomacy, international relations, and foreign policy analysis.
During the workshop, students discussed strategies for managing risks of strategic confrontation with China, strengthening relations between the UK and the European Union, and ending the war in Ukraine. They also participated in a team-based simulation to develop foreign policy ideas for UK ministers under time pressure. Moreover, students discussed strategies for helping bring about a durable and fair peace between Israel and Palestine.
In addition to the workshop, Ian Proud provided career guidance to students. On the same day, he held career mentoring sessions, where students discussed the process for joining the Foreign Office via the Fast Stream and other recruitment routes.
The degree programmes at Durham University offer a BA in Modern European Languages and History with a year abroad, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of world regions discussed in the sessions. Some of the modules related to these regions include Modern Times: A Cultural History of Europe, c. 1860-1960, Modern China's Transformations, The History of Modern Ukraine from Borderland to Bloodland, 1850s to 2000s, and Soviet Socialism in the Cold War: The USSR, 1945-1991.
For those interested in specific details about Ian Proud's workshop, such as the agenda, speakers, and career advice given to students, it is recommended to check Durham University’s official events calendar, the university’s international relations or political science department pages, or contact Durham’s careers service directly. These sources usually provide event descriptions, speaker bios, and career resources linked to foreign policy workshops.
Ian Proud set out the skills and behaviours that will stand students in good stead to survive and thrive in a diplomatic career. His talk on 28 November, which focused on demystifying the lifestyle of a foreign office career, was a valuable addition to the career mentoring and workshop sessions. These events offered students a unique opportunity to gain practical insights into the world of diplomacy and international relations, and to explore career paths in this exciting field.
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