Q&A with Karin Noskova
Karin Noskova was an Education, Society and Culture BA student, class of 2023. Karin is currently a Programme Manager at the Volkswagen Slovakia Foundation.
Why did you choose UCL to study your undergraduate degree?
I chose UCL because it offered a space where global perspectives and social justice were genuinely valued. The course aligned perfectly with my interest in equity, inclusion, and policy, and I was excited by the chance to learn in such an international community.
What do you miss most about your time at UCL?
I miss the energy of the campus and the sense of constant discovery.
Being surrounded by curious, motivated people created an atmosphere that was inspiring every day.
I also miss the libraries, spontaneous conversations, and the feeling that new opportunities were always around the corner.
Are there any experiences at your time at UCL that shaped or supported you in your future career?
UCL shaped me in many ways – from modules on inclusion and policy that deepened my commitment to equity, to my research work that strengthened my love for evidence. Community organising with CitizensUK also taught me the power of collective action, which still guides my work today.
UCL Careers helped me gain confidence in navigating the sector. Their guidance on applications, events connecting students with professionals, and opportunities like the Turing Grant all supported my development. Their resources helped me translate my interests into tangible steps forward.
Tell us a bit about your career
My career has grown at the intersection of education, policy, and philanthropy. In my current role as Programme Manager at the Volkswagen Slovakia Foundation, I lead inclusive education and women’s empowerment initiatives, manage partnerships, and shape strategy grounded in evidence. I arrived here through roles across research, government, and global networks, each reinforcing my commitment to using education as a driver of equity and long‑term social change.
What has been your career highlight so far?
A highlight has been creating Slovakia’s first philanthropic advisory board on inclusive education. Bringing together NGOs, experts, and government advisers and seeing their collaboration shape real policy discussions felt deeply meaningful and showed me the impact thoughtful coordination can have.
What are your future career aspirations?
I hope to keep working where evidence, policy, and philanthropy meet, with growing responsibility for shaping strategy and system‑level change. I’m motivated by roles that combine analysis with collaboration, and I want to contribute to long‑term improvements in equity and education.
What makes you most proud to be a UCL alumnus?
I’m proud to come from a community that values curiosity, fairness, and global engagement. UCL encouraged me to think critically and compassionately, and to connect learning with real impact.
Being part of a network of people committed to improving the world feels very special.
Is there any advice you would like to give future UCL students?
Stay open, ask questions, and let yourself explore. UCL offers so many opportunities - academic, social, and personal. Each one can shape you in unexpected ways. Don’t hesitate to seek support, build relationships, and follow what genuinely inspires you.
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Last updated 20 April 2026.