By Simran Raja
So, I was born and brought up in Leicester. I’m 22, and I’m studying Politics and International Relations in my first year! It’s been an interesting journey getting here, but I am so glad I found my way to Westminster.
I grew up in a turbulent household, and my dad passed away when I was 11. For most of my time at school, I really struggled, trying to make it through life as an undiagnosed ADHDer, but my passion for politics always trumped my constant confusion. The Brexit referendum changed my life in so many ways; it sparked my love for politics, which led me to do my Year 9 oral dissertation on whether 16- and 17-year-olds should get the right to vote. And here we are, years later.
When I turned 18, I went to university in Leicester and began studying psychology, but I couldn’t seem to find any passion for it, so I decided to drop out and work full-time instead. I knew I wanted to go back to university. I almost stayed close to home, but at 3 a.m., I had a random thought: “Why don’t I just go check out the University of Westminster?” I loved it, there and then.
I’d spoken to students about DEN and had a keen interest in joining, and the rest is history, really. My first-ever meeting at DEN was so cool! The Vice-Chancellor had me stand up and told everyone I wanted to connect and make friends. By the second session, I already knew people and had found friends I hope to stay connected with. DEN, to me, is a safe and non-judgmental space to truly express yourself, with the help and guidance of your peers.
My proudest moment so far has to be when Farhang told me I could do well in DEN and asked me to get more involved, as a first year, at my second meeting. I was so grateful that I’d finally found a space where I fit in.
Once I got to London, I knew I belonged here. It was the best decision I’d made for myself. I had this realisation on the tube to university on day two: I had “End of Beginning” by Djo playing, and I was dancing and singing to myself when it hit me, “Damn, I finally made it.” All I hope is that I can make little Simran proud one day.
So, really and truly, it doesn’t matter what happened in my past, because I made it to where I am meant to be.
