A second-year Politics student on taking two years to join DEN, and what he found when he did
David Colville, second-year BA Politics, University of Westminster, 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?
On my first day of the foundation year. I was too scared to join to begin with. In my first year, I did not want to participate. It took until the start of my second year, and some serious convincing from friends, before I actually went.
Which DEN activities have you taken part in?
The leadership workshop with students from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and the DEN Conference 2026.
Was there a moment at DEN that has stayed with you?
Getting the feedback on my blog. The piece was deeply personal, and having that vulnerability met with compassion and praise, as well as with proper editorial feedback, and having it open up a real conversation, was something special.
What aspects of DEN have had the biggest impact on you?
The discussions on the blogs, and the opportunities available. You are actively encouraged, and seeing yourself grow through that is a good feeling.
How has DEN helped you develop personally?
It has given me the confidence to take opportunities. It has given me the sense that I am worthy of the opportunities given to me, and that my voice does have value.
Has DEN helped you with employability or professional development?
Absolutely. Outside of confidence in my own abilities, it has helped me put myself into situations that develop skills such as leadership (the workshop with CUHK is one example), and the ability to present myself to crowds or to individuals, such as in an interview.
What is one thing DEN has given you that you would have struggled to find elsewhere?
Motivation and intellectual stimulation. I have not struggled with that in my course, but DEN gives me something different: a space where I can talk about whatever I want.
What advice would you give to students thinking of joining?
It is overwhelming and scary. But you are not expected to contribute any more than you wish to. If you want to sit in the corner for the first three weeks, that is okay. Do so. It will not be easy, but joining a community makes your journey a lot easier.
What would you say to a colleague at another university?
Come along. DEN is about creating a community, and that is not exclusive to Westminster. If you want to come and see how we do it, you are more than welcome.
Should DEN do anything differently in the next decade?
Advertise itself more, if possible. It is a great opportunity and a great space. More people should know about it.
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Photo caption: “You are not expected to contribute any more than you wish to.”
