Class of 2018: Sarah Sakor

All this week we are celebrating the achievements of some of our students who are graduating in the class of 2018.

Sarah Sakor, (MSc Conflict Resolution) is determined to make a difference with her degree, and her contributions in volunteering and charity work to help vulnerable people has set the path to her success.

Sarah, from Norway, was glad she chose to do her Masters at Essex.

She said: “I had an amazing experience studying at Essex. I really enjoyed the multicultural environment as it made me feel like I was a part of a large and interesting community.”

“I was also lucky to study at the Department of Government, which is highly recognised for its exceptional political research. The research and teaching of academic staff were excellent, as they emphasised on skills needed in the job market.”

During her studies, Sarah carried out an astounding number of volunteering activities. She was Project Manager for the 2016 Annual Student Conference, supported the organisation of two departmental workshops, became team leader for the Refugee Teaching Program, worked as a Frontrunner and volunteered as a Peer Mentor, Visit Day ambassador, Female Peacekeeper and worked at Nightline, confidential listening and emotional support service run by students on campus.

Sarah is currently working as a Research and Fundraising intern for a grass-roots organisation called FORWARD (Foundation for Women's Health Research and Development) which combats gender-based violence and other forms of violence that affect the health, dignity and well-being of African women and girls.

As her internship at FORWARD draws to an end, Sarah is already making plans after she graduates this summer.

She said: “I am looking for new opportunities and challenges, preferably in the Norwegian Foreign Department, organisations such as World Bank, UN and other recognised international organisations. Who knows where I might end up?! I might even end up creating my own company and work for myself.”