Benjamin Blevins

Ben graduated from Aber in 2009 with an MSc(Econ) in Terrorism and International Relations. He now works for an American NGO in Liberia.

What do you remember most about your time at Aber?

Aber was a time of intellectual stimulation, academic challenge and bonding between professors and peers. Yes, the weather was not always nice, but this also keeps your focus on the tasks at hand. And two years later, my Aber friends are still some of my best and closest friends. A tremendous experience!

What are you doing now career-wise and how has your Aberystwyth degree helped?

I am currently working for an American NGO in Liberia focusing on food security and livelihood assistance. As a student of Critical Security Studies, I feel more adept at finding innovative solutions to challenging situations whether working on policy debates in Brussels or with farmers in the field in Liberia.

What advice would you have for a student doing your course now?

One might compare the year at Aber to a 'runway' to gain maximum momentum to launch one's career. Therefore I would advise anyone pursuing a Masters in International Relations to take full advantage of the wealth of knowledge available, and to push well beyond the frontier of one's intellectual horizon.