How DEN became my best experience at university
Afra Bhuiyan, Politics and International Relations, Class of 2026, University of Westminster (Regent Street), 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 came into contact with DEN in my first year. Farhang was my seminar teacher, and he asked everyone to join and write a blog about their journey into university. I remember him trying to convince me to take his course, International Relations and Development, but I did not (sorry, Farhang).
I went to my first DEN meeting around that time, and did not return until second year, when Maliha told me to join the module (again, sorry, Farhang). From that point on, I never left. I still talk to the people who went to Vietnam with me, even though they do not study the same courses. It is the people, Farhang, the community we built, and the change we have made over the past two years.
Which DEN activities have you taken part in?
I have been part of a lot of them: the 2024 field trip to Vietnam, the 2025 Victory over Japan Symposium, the 8th Annual DEN Conference, the 2025 field trip to Türkiye, the 2026 Hong Kong student conference, and the 9th Annual DEN Conference.
Was there a moment at DEN that has stayed with you?
I would not say there is one specific thing. It is the whole time I was there.
What aspects of DEN have had the biggest impact on you?
The community. Vietnam helped me connect more deeply with my friends. Travel changes a person, and because we connected during the trip, it locked us in.
How has DEN helped you develop personally?
It has helped me become more confident in myself, especially in public speaking.
Has DEN helped you with employability or professional development?
Yes, actually. Because of the number of activities I took part in during my time with DEN, I have been able to develop a lot of professional skills.
What is one thing DEN has given you that you would have struggled to find elsewhere?
The sense of community, for sure.
What advice would you give to students thinking of joining?
Go for it. This is how you find opportunities you would otherwise miss out on. I know it is cliché, but it is true.
What would you say to a colleague at another university?
Probably my best experience at university. And if possible, start something similar at your own.
Should DEN do anything differently in the next decade?
Maybe bring in past alumni and have them review CVs, to help current students with employability.