“It gave me the confidence that I did know what I was talking about.”

A pandemic-era alumnus, now an Urban Planner at Rail Delivery Group, on publishing his dissertation in the DEN book, standing for election, and moving abroad

Sebastian James Crisp, BA graduate, University of Westminster (2019–2022); now Urban Planner at Rail Delivery Group, United Kingdom

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 in my third year at Westminster. It offered a lot of opportunities to learn from other students I would not necessarily have shared classes with. Along with its commitment to events and to showcasing student work, it was a social space to have a good time, and to develop a deeper understanding of topics I had not explored before.

Which DEN activities have you taken part in?

The DEN Conference, and the publication of my dissertation in the DEN end-of-year book.

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

The moment that stands out most is having my dissertation published in the book. It felt like quite a big step, and even an impossible one, when you are younger and surrounded by intelligent academics. But being given that opportunity, and being able to point to it for the rest of my life, made me immensely proud. It gave me the confidence that I did know what I was talking about.

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

As with my whole Westminster experience, the chance to mix with people with varying degrees of knowledge across a wide range of areas, and with different upbringings from mine, was always fascinating. My vocational education at university was very important, but that experience gave me an interest in the world and in different ideas that I still hold strongly today.

How has DEN helped you develop personally?

Building confidence in speaking to people, and in understanding their points of view.

Has DEN helped you with employability or professional development?

The practical skills I developed through DEN, particularly in public speaking through delivering presentations on topics I was passionate about, and in building confidence through networking, prepared me very well for two of the most important aspects of professional life today. Without these skills, my ability to regularly present to senior stakeholders in my industry, and my ability to have stood for election, would both have been far harder.

For my next steps, I am keen to move abroad. While that is still a work in progress, and challenging in its own ways, I do not think I would have had the same impatience to do so had DEN not added to my curiosity about going to different places, and speaking to people whose experiences differ from my own.

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

The freedom to explore topics beyond the formal curriculum, rather than being limited to assigned tasks or to directions from someone more senior, was incredibly fulfilling. Having the autonomy to investigate subjects that interested me, and to present my findings to others in an academic environment, gave me a sense of enjoyment from education that can sometimes get lost in exam and graded work.

What advice would you give to students thinking of joining?

Absolutely go for it. There are so many unique and unexpected opportunities to visit new places, develop new interests, and try things you might never otherwise have the chance to experience. You may not be sure where you fit in just yet, but I guarantee this group will help you find something that is right for you, no matter what it is, or how different it may be.

What would you say to a colleague at another university?

Now that I am a bit older, and have friends who attended other universities, I have realised just how unique DEN is. It provides a relaxed and welcoming environment that helps people build both their confidence and their knowledge, while also creating a genuinely social community. Most university groups tend to focus on either personal development or social activities. DEN successfully combines both, which makes it stand out.

If you are thinking about joining, take the opportunity. You will not regret it. I also believe this model should be replicated more widely, giving more students the chance to explore subjects and opportunities they might not otherwise encounter, while meeting new people from outside their own courses.

Should DEN do anything differently in the next decade?

My university experience was affected by COVID, so as someone who enjoys exploring new places, I would definitely encourage making the most of the visits and trips DEN offers. They can become some of the most memorable parts of university, both for the learning they provide and the memories you create. Having even more opportunities like this would be fantastic.

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Photo caption: “It’ll work itself out. Just have a good time while you’re young.”