Meet Maria, who studied BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Maria San Miguel - Alumna
Tell us about your career path since graduation. How did you end up where you are?
After graduating, I knew I wanted to pursue a path where I could engage directly with global issues of justice and inequality. During my undergraduate years, I was involved in several advocacy and human rights initiatives, such as leading the Homeless Project, which really shaped my interest in international law and humanitarian work.
I moved to Geneva to study for a Master’s in International Human Rights and Humanitarianism at the Graduate Institute. At the same time, I started working with international NGOs and advocacy groups, trying to understand how change happens both from the ground up and within institutions. Currently, I’m doing an internship with the Sovereign Order of Malta’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva. My work focuses on international law, especially human rights law, and how it’s applied in the context of humanitarian crises. I’ve been involved in monitoring Human Rights Council sessions, drafting policy documents, and contributing to advocacy efforts on issues like the protection of civilians in conflict and the rights of displaced people.
What was it about your time at Royal Holloway that has most benefitted your career or influenced your path since graduation?
One of the most impactful experiences I had at Royal Holloway was taking part in the Politics in Action programme, where I worked with a Member of Parliament in Westminster. That experience really opened doors for me, not only did it give me insight into how political institutions function from the inside, but it also gave me practical skills in policy analysis, advocacy, and navigating formal systems of power. That placement played a role in shaping my path after graduation. It helped me develop the confidence to engage with international institutions and gave me a clearer understanding of how national politics connects with global issues.
When I moved to Geneva to pursue my Masters and started working in the humanitarian and human rights space, that early experience proved hugely valuable. It gave me a solid foundation in political processes and showed me how much impact well-informed, strategic advocacy can have, something I now try to carry into my work every day.
What would you say to potential students considering studying at Royal Holloway and thinking about a career in your sector?
To students considering studying at Royal Holloway: I’d say go for it, not just because of the academic strength of the University, but because of the real-world opportunities it offers alongside your studies. Royal Holloway gives you the space to explore your interests, but also the structure to turn them into something concrete. Take full advantage of everything, the societies, the mentoring and the internships. It’s a place that can really launch you if you’re proactive.
For me, the Politics in Action programme and the support I received from professors were key. I was able to get hands-on experience, meet inspiring people, and build the foundation I needed to pursue work in international institutions.
To students thinking about a career in the humanitarian or human rights sector: Be prepared for a path that isn’t always linear, and don’t let that discourage you. The work can be emotionally challenging and professionally uncertain at times, especially early on, but it’s also incredibly meaningful. Try to gain experience at different levels, grassroots, legal, policy, and stay open to learning from people on the ground. Read widely, question your assumptions, and don’t be afraid to start small. The big institutions can seem intimidating, but your voice matters, especially if you’re bringing fresh ideas and critical thinking. And finally, surround yourself with people who are in it for the right reasons, it really helps keep you grounded.
What did you love most about your time at Royal Holloway?
What I loved most about my time at Royal Holloway was the sense of community. It’s a place where people genuinely support each other, both academically and personally. I had the pleasure of representing the University as a Student Ambassador, which gave me the chance to meet people from so many different backgrounds and share what made the experience special for me. One of my favourite memories was going out to the fields behind campus after our summer exams. Everyone would gather there to relax, celebrate, and just enjoy the sun after all the stress, it was such a simple tradition, but it really captured the spirit of Royal Holloway: hardworking, diverse, and grounded in friendship.
