“You will go further than we have ever gone.”

A Kasetsart University alumnus on presenting at the DEN conference, editing the DEN book, and the research career it set in motion

Thanakrit Thongchantr (Tt.), BA International Relations, Faculty of Social Sciences, Kasetsart University, Class of 2023; now Research Assistant, Thailand

Part of the Inside Westminster anniversary series marking ten years of the Democratic Education Network.

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How did you first come into contact with DEN?

I first came into contact with DEN through an opportunity provided by my faculty at Kasetsart University, which encouraged students to gain international academic experiences and broaden their perspectives beyond our home institution. Through this opportunity, I was introduced to the DEN community at the University of Westminster.

Which DEN activities have you taken part in?

Three in particular: participating in DEN’s International Students Conference at the University of Westminster in May 2023; presenting my dissertation at a DEN academic event and receiving feedback from academics and participants; and contributing as an author and editorial-board member to DEN publications.

Was there a moment at DEN that has stayed with you?

One of the most memorable moments for me was presenting my dissertation at the DEN conference. Having the opportunity to share my research with academics, students and participants from different countries was a valuable experience. It allowed me to develop my confidence as a researcher, and to appreciate the importance of international collaboration and knowledge exchange.

What aspects of DEN have had the biggest impact on you?

The biggest impact has been the opportunity to become involved in academic publishing and international collaboration. Being part of the DEN book publication, and contributing as a member of the editorial board, allowed me to experience the process of developing academic work, from reviewing ideas to supporting the creation of a collective publication.

Just as important was the opportunity to work with, and learn from, people with different experiences, cultures, and academic backgrounds. These connections made the experience more meaningful, and showed me the value of a global learning community.

How has DEN helped you develop personally?

DEN has helped me grow by building more confidence in expressing my ideas, and in engaging with people from different cultural and academic backgrounds. It has allowed me to develop a more open mindset. The friendships and connections I made through DEN have also influenced the way I view collaboration and learning.

Has DEN helped you with employability or professional development?

Yes. DEN has played an important role in my academic and professional development by giving me the foundation and confidence to continue my research journey. Presenting my dissertation at the DEN conference, and contributing to the DEN book editorial process, helped me develop essential skills in research, academic writing, communication, and collaboration.

The experience I gained through DEN has supported my current work as a Research Assistant. The opportunities to engage with academics, to receive feedback, and to work within an international academic community have helped me strengthen my research skills, and better understand the process of academic knowledge creation. DEN has given me the confidence and foundation to continue developing my research interests, and to contribute to future academic projects.

What is one thing DEN has given you that you would have struggled to find elsewhere?

DEN has given me the opportunity to become part of an international academic community, and to develop myself as a young academic. One of the most valuable opportunities was being able to contribute to academic publications, and to gain experience with the process of sharing research beyond my own institution.

Through DEN, I had the opportunity to be involved in the DEN book publication, and to experience academic publishing first-hand. That gave me confidence and motivation to continue developing my research. The network also opened opportunities for me to pursue international academic publication, and to connect with researchers from different parts of the world. These experiences have been a strong foundation for my academic journey, and would have been difficult to find elsewhere.

What advice would you give to students thinking of joining?

Take every opportunity that comes to you, especially the ones that let you learn, connect with others, and challenge yourself. DEN is not only about academic activities. It is also about the people you meet, and the experiences you gain along the way.

This mindset applies beyond DEN. Wherever an opportunity appears, if you feel that it matches your interests, and you believe you can contribute and grow from it, do not be afraid to take that step. Sometimes these experiences can open doors you may not expect, and help you discover your potential.

What would you say to a colleague at another university?

DEN is more than just an academic network. It is a community that connects people from different countries and backgrounds through shared interests, research, and collaboration. DEN creates opportunities for people to learn from each other, to develop new perspectives, and to build meaningful international relationships.

Should DEN do anything differently in the next decade?

I hope DEN continues to strengthen its international community and create more opportunities for students to connect with each other. Expanding activities such as collaborative publications, conferences and student projects would allow even more people to share ideas and build relationships across borders. Maybe even a DEN reunion one day, where everyone can meet again and share their journeys. Although for that, we may need a very big venue.

Anything else you would like us to know?

I cherish and appreciate the opportunities and memories DEN has created for students to connect, learn, and grow. Being part of this community has shown me the importance of collaboration and sharing knowledge across borders.