Student Spotlight: Brevadhya Bulandra Anwari

Tell us a bit about yourself, and your background.
I have a background in International Relations and journalism, having worked as a reporter and presenter, where I covered live events, investigative stories, and complex political developments. My experience in media has given me a deep appreciation for how political decisions shape societies and how narratives influence public discourse. Additionally, I have a strong academic interest in democracy, authoritarianism, and comparative politics, particularly in relation to Southeast Asia.  

Why did you apply to the Political Science Department at UCL?
UCL’s Political Science Department stood out to me for its interdisciplinary approach, global outlook, and emphasis on real-world impact. The Democracy and Comparative Politics MSc aligns perfectly with my academic interests, particularly in studying modernisation theory, democratisation, and state-building. I was also drawn to the opportunity to learn from leading scholars and engage in critical discussions on pressing global issues.  

What do you like best about your course so far?
One of the highlights of the course has been the interesting debates and the diversity of perspectives in the classroom. The modules I’ve taken Governing Divided Societies, Democracy and Constitutional Design, and Social Justice, Social Mobility, Education the Family have given me both theoretical depth and practical tools. I also appreciate how the coursework encourages us to question dominant narratives and think critically about policy implications.  

What is the rest of your cohort like?
The cohort is incredibly diverse, engaged, and intellectually curious. We come from a wide range of backgrounds: academia, government, NGOs, journalism, and even the private sector which makes discussions dynamic and insightful. What I enjoy most is that everyone brings unique regional perspectives, allowing us to compare different political systems and democratization experiences across the world.  

What is the teaching and learning like?
The teaching style at UCL is a balance between structured lectures and interactive seminars. The faculty are highly accessible and encouraging, pushing us to engage critically with theories and empirical cases. Learning is not just about memorising concepts but about applying them to contemporary global challenges which is what makes the experience so enriching.  

What are your career aspirations and how do you envisage the programme helping with these?
I aspire to work in political government offices, contributing to governance reform, and democratic development. My goal is to be involved in shaping legislative policies, political strategy, and institutional reforms that strengthen democratic institutions and promote good governance.  

The MSc in Democracy and Comparative Politics is equipping me with the analytical skills, theoretical knowledge, and policy expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of government work. The programme’s emphasis on evidence-based policy-making, comparative governance, and practical applications provides me with a strong foundation for a career in government. Additionally, UCL’s networking opportunities and exposure to guest speakers from government and policy sectors are invaluable for building connections in the field.  

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London.
1. The British Library – A perfect spot for research, writing, or just soaking in the intellectual atmosphere.  
2. Southbank and the Thames Walk – Ideal for taking in the city’s history, arts scene, and great views.  
3. Borough Market – A must-visit for amazing food from around the world!  

Who inspires you and why?
I’m deeply inspired by Jacinda Ardern, not just for her role as Prime Minister of New Zealand, but for her empathetic leadership, crisis management, and commitment to progressive governance. She demonstrated that compassion and decisiveness can coexist in politics, leading with authenticity and transparency. I admire her communication skills, her emphasis on well-being policies, and her ability to challenge traditional political norms. She represents the kind of principled and people-focused leadership that I aspire to bring into government and policymaking.

If you could implement one policy in the world today, what would it be?
I would implement a global policy on democratic accountability and political transparency, requiring all governments to disclose funding sources, political lobbying efforts, and policy-making processes. Corruption and political opacity undermine trust and legitimacy, and a more transparent governance framework would help strengthen democracy and reduce elite capture of political institutions.