Rosie Watkins

Rosie took the BA in Modern Languages and Culture with Year Abroad, specializing in French and German and graduating in 2019.

What do you do now?

I joined the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office via the Fast Stream in 2019. I spent two years working in London including on our international approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, on the UK’s G7 Presidency 2021 and helping to draft the UK-Republic of Korea bilateral framework for closer cooperation. I am now on my first posting at the British Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia. I caught the bug for working internationally on my Year Abroad and pinch myself every day I get to experience that through my career!

What was your favourite module and why?

Two modules have really stuck with me and for very different reasons, which shows just how much variety there is within an MLAC degree. Firstly, I specialised in German interpreting in my final year and learnt how to simultaneously and consecutively interpret German into English (and the other way round!) from EU debates. This taught me so much about German language - grammar and vocab - and it was really satisfying to see my progress. But I also learnt how to use short hand and note take, which has become a pretty important skill as a diplomat! Secondly, I loved learning about medieval French literature. It was a window into another world, from language to story-telling and the way we see the world. What has stuck with me most is learning how intercultural the medieval world actually was – something we often forget nowadays.

How did your studies prepare you for what you do now?

A job at the FCDO is all about working internationally and working with people from all over the world. It’s also a lot about language: briefings, statements, working complex policy into clear submissions for Ministers. The MLAC degree gave a me a head start in both!

What is the most important piece of advice you’d like to give to students of Modern Languages? 

Don’t underestimate what an amazing experience a year abroad is. It’s no doubt a challenge but the experiences you will have, and at such a young age, are irreplaceable and stick with you forever. You can get so much out of the year in terms of improving your language skills, gaining skills for your future career, improving your self-confidence and making the best friends! Go for it. Also, fourth year is the loveliest year ever J

What is your favourite memory of Durham? 

What I loved the most about Durham was being in such a tight-knit community - running into friends all around town was so fun!

Rosie's profile is on LinkedIn