Jimena Alvarez
Trinity College Dublin
Philosophy, Political Science, Economics & Sociology 

My Experience as Peruvian Laidlaw Scholar

Embarking on my journey as a Laidlaw Scholar was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Coming from Peru and studying in Ireland, I already had a perspective of what it meant to be a global citizen, having navigated different cultures, languages, and environments. However, the Laidlaw program elevated my understanding of global citizenship to a whole new level. Not only did I engage with international students on a day-to-day basis, but I also connected with peers who had leadership ambitions and a genuine desire to make positive change in the world. This unique combination of perspectives, motivations, and experiences—along with my experience interviewing refugee case workers in my first summer research and my time in Barcelona during my second summer Leadership in Action (LiA)—broadened my worldview in ways I had not anticipated.

As a Peruvian student in Ireland, I have the opportunity to study at a highly international university, Trinity College Dublin. This environment itself was already an amazing chance to meet people with different cultures, ideas, and worldviews. However, through the Laidlaw Scholarship, I was exposed to a group of individuals who not only had international backgrounds but also shared an ambition to lead and make a difference in their respective fields, within and outside my cohort. These are not just students; they are future leaders determined to solve pressing issues—whether in business, biomedical sciences, literature, or social justice. 

During my first summer’s research, I focused on the integration of Ukrainian in Ireland through the perspective of the case workers. I conducted interviews with six professionals from different cultural and professional backgrounds, all deeply involved in refugee support and care work. These interviews exposed me to the multifaceted nature of displacement, migration, and integration—issues that, while shaped by local contexts, are truly global in scope. Talking to people of different nationalities and listening to their diverse perspectives really broadened my understanding of global challenges, especially the role that empathy, resilience, and collaborative leadership play in addressing them.

My time in Barcelona for my second summer LiA introduced me to another level of international engagement. Working with the Red Cross, I interacted with people from different countries and backgrounds, all united by a shared mission. Whether I was assisting with administrative tasks or helping deliver drought prevention packs to communities in need, I learned how interconnected we all are. The challenges faced by refugees and migrants in Spain were similar to those faced by people in my home country Peru and Ireland, where I study.  This experiences reinforced my understanding of how global challenges—like migration, poverty, and inequality—require global solutions.

Moreover, these two summer experiences have shaped my understanding of how impactful leadership can be within organizations. My administrative role at the Red Cross might not have been the social volunteering I initially hoped for, but it provided me with invaluable insights into the inner workings of a humanitarian organization. I learned how crucial efficient systems and strong leadership are in delivering aid effectively. The ability to integrate volunteers, manage resources, and ensure that support reaches those who need it most requires not only logistical skills but also a deep understanding of people and their needs. These lessons have equipped me with the tools to lead within organizations in a way that maximizes impact, ensuring that both resources and people are utilized in the most effective and ethical ways possible.

As I reflect on my growth as a Laidlaw Scholar, I am immensely grateful for the opportunities that this program has afforded me. Looking forward, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. I aim to apply the insights and skills I’ve gained through the Laidlaw program to future leadership roles, always with a focus on ethics, growth, and lasting impact. Whether it’s through continuing my work with organizations like the Red Cross or pursuing my passions on topics like refugee aid, women’s issues and diplomacy, I am committed to making a positive difference in the world. I am confident that the experiences I’ve had will serve as a foundation for this commitment, and I look forward to leading with the same energy, passion, and dedication that I have developed during my time in the program.