School of Social and Political Science

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Nathalie Balabhadra

Nathalie shares her experience of studying Economics and Politics at the University of Edinburgh. She gives an insight into her favourite course, Global Security, her experience writing her dissertation (which won her the Russell Keat Award for most distinguished undergraduate politics dissertation), and doing a year abroad studying at the University of Toronto.

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Studying at the School of Social and Political Science

What made you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh?

I was really drawn to exploring Edinburgh as a city. Growing up in London, I knew I wanted to study in a similar diverse, multicultural, and dynamic setting, so Edinburgh seemed the best fit! The Politics side of the course was of great interest to me, as I had never studied Politics before, having just completed my Economics A-level. 

How have you enjoyed your programme?

I enjoyed the programme thoroughly. The first two years provided the necessary foundation and theory of Economics, Politics and International Relations and I was still able to choose elective courses outside of these areas, for example, doing History courses in my first and second years. I particularly enjoyed my year abroad at the University of Toronto, Canada, where I really got to explore politics at honours level. The highlight of my undergraduate degree has definitely been the year abroad and being able to explore another university during the four years. 

What has been your favourite course?

My favourite course at Edinburgh has probably been Global Security which is an honours-level third and fourth year course. We explored the role and nature of security in the 20th and 21st centuries, as well as how securitisation has impacted our daily lives and the spaces we live in. We covered case studies such as the threat of nuclear war during the 20th century, terrorism and the aftermath of 9/11, how gender plays into security, and the securitisation of the Covid-19 pandemic. The class was a mixture of lectures, practicals, where external speakers and experts would come in to discuss the practical side of the theories and ideas we had read about, and tutorials. 

Aims for after University?

I will be pursuing a Master's at Columbia University, New York City, US, to expand and deepen my understanding of global politics and global issues. 

What does a typical weekday look like for you as a student at SPS?

My SPS classes were based in George Square, which was great because I was close to the city and restaurants, as well as the libraries, where I would work in between classes and meet friends. I also really enjoyed sitting in Bristo Square as a coffee break in between doing readings and writing essays. 

What are your highlights from your time at the School of Social and Political Science?

A personal highlight has been my undergraduate dissertation, which explored the relationship between nuclear weapons and human rights; particularly, the paradoxical ‘double game’ in which some nuclear weapon states continue to modernise their arsenals whilst staunchly upholding human rights, while others experience a worsening of their human rights situation due to the acquisition of such weapons and the consequences of regional destabilisation and insecurity.

I received a First-Class award for this piece of work and also won the Russell Keat Award for most distinguished undergraduate politics dissertation. I am particularly grateful to my supervisor, Dr Andrew Hom, who challenged my ideas and highlighted new avenues of research. 

Knowing what you do now, what would you say to your past self before starting the course?

Don’t try to read everything that is set for each course! University life is a balance of studying and pursuing your academic interests but also exploring the city and student life you’re in. Learning and studying in groups was also useful, especially for the more technical or theoretical aspects of the course which can be hard to grasp sometimes. 

University life

Are you involved in any student societies?

During my four years, I was involved with The Buchanan Institute, which is Scotland’s only student-led think tank. As a researcher in second year, I explored the accessibility of higher education to refugees and asylum seeker students coming to Scotland.

In my final year, I was the Research Director at Buchanan and the Director of Marketing for the newly-established Women in Politics and International Relations society at Edinburgh. I would recommend both! I’ve met some of my closest friends whilst participating in societies. 

Where have you lived while studying at Edinburgh? 

I’ve lived in a lot of different areas whilst at Edinburgh. In first year, I was in self-catered halls, while during my second year I moved to an apartment in Marchmont. Marchmont is perfect for a quieter setting and is close to the Meadows. In my final year, I lived in New Town which is probably my favourite Edinburgh location because it is super close to the city centre. 

What has your University experience been like, in just three words?!

Challenging, rewarding, inspiring. 

If you recommend ONE thing to do in the first semester what would it be?

Join a society! It’s a great way to meet new people. 

The City of Edinburgh

What are your favourite things to do in Edinburgh at the weekend? 

Walks around Edinburgh, trying out new restaurants, getting ice cream from Mary’s Milk Bar. 

City of Edinburgh top tip or hidden gem?

A great coffee spot is Black Medicine Coffee Co., and my favourite park is Inverleith Park!