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In January 2025, we profile UCL BA French and Spanish student and 2024-25 European Institute Student Ambassador, Alexander Anderson.
Tell us a bit about yourself
My name is Alexander, and I'm a second-year student studying French and Spanish. My passion for international and European affairs led me to my current role as a Student Ambassador at UCL's European Institute.
Although I've lived in London my whole life, I was raised in a multicultural environment and exposed to UK, EU, and Polish politics from an early age. Growing up bilingual made it easier to develop my language skills, and I now speak seven languages at an advanced (nearly fluent) level. This multilingualism has shaped my understanding of Europe, its complexities, and its political and cultural dynamics.
Whether it's editing a journalistic piece, organising events, or engaging with peers, I thrive at the intersection of critical analysis and civic engagement. And whenever I have the time, I like to go hiking!
What areas or topics of study are you interested in, and how have you explored them at UCL?
While my degree leans more towards literature than politics (as anyone who has met me knows!), I've been able to explore political and historical perspectives through certain modules, such as Spain in the 20th century and immigration in South America through a literary lens. Beyond my degree, I've actively sought out opportunities to deepen my knowledge of international affairs through Model UN, Government and Politics Society, and Diplomacy Society.
As a Student Ambassador for UCL's European Institute, I've had the opportunity to engage with diverse and thought-provoking discussions. One of the highlights was interviewing Professor Ashiagbor on colonial legacies in the EU and their impact on labour law. I was also glad to be able to report on a European Institute panel exploring the security landscape in Europe, particularly the implications of Ukraine's situation following Trump's reelection, as intelligence and defence are key areas of interest for me.
Through my editorial work with The Diplomat (UCL Diplomacy Soc's print magazine) and Europinion, I've examined themes such as populism, democratic backsliding, and wider political trends in Europe. These roles have allowed me to collaborate with peers who share my passion for international affairs while honing my ability to analyse and communicate complex issues.
Additionally, my language skills have been instrumental in my academic journey. Writing for Le Journal, UCL's francophone newspaper, allowed me to engage with European political narratives directly in French, contributing to discussions on the 2023 Polish election and the evolving media landscape. Thanks to my languages, I also managed to gain a prestigious internship at the Telegraph in sixth form on their Foreign Desk.
Why are you interested in Europe?
Growing up with a European perspective, I've always been aware of the complexities of EU governance, its democratic deficit, and the East-West divide.
My interest in European affairs intensified with the rise of populist rhetoric across the continent, coinciding with major political events such as the Brexit referendum and Trump 1.0 (and now 2.0!). Witnessing the tensions between national sovereignty and collective European cooperation further deepened my curiosity about how the EU adapts to evolving challenges.
Despite Brexit, I strongly believe the UK remains deeply interconnected with the rest of Europe. Political, economic, and social developments within the EU have tangible effects on Britain, both at an individual and collective level. Understanding and shaping Europe's future, therefore, remains just as relevant post-Brexit as it was before.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
In 10 years, I hope to use my multilingual and interdisciplinary background to work in European diplomacy, policymaking, or international journalism. My ultimate goal is to contribute to platforms or institutions that tackle pressing European challenges – whether through policy development, opinion pieces, or fostering informed dialogue across borders.
Whether working within European institutions like the European Commission, leading multilingual media initiatives, or conducting research on European political dynamics, I aim to be part of the conversations shaping a more progressive and inclusive Europe.