Hello! I am a first year undergraduate student at Durham University studying Modern European Languages and Cultures, including advanced Spanish and ab initio Italian.
I believe that the intersection between languages and culture, politics and peacebuilding is hugely important in a multicultural but increasingly divided world. I am therefore passionate about using my skills for good, especially through my research project into ethical and compassionate immigration policy.
I'm really excited to work alongside the 2026 scholars!
Hello! I'm Melissa (she/her), an incoming third-year undergraduate student at Durham University studying BSc Natural Sciences. I am passionate about multi-disciplinary learning, and my range of degree modules across the departments of Biology, Geography and Anthropology allow me to explore my interests across both the sciences and social sciences. I love all things human, and am especially interested in the fields of human biology, equitable healthcare, and public health.
In summer 2025, I thoroughly enjoyed commencing my journey as a Laidlaw Scholar with my research project focussing on the development of vision in human fetuses, including focussing on how maternal mental health impacts upon this. In summer 2026, I had the privilege of travelling to Melbourne, Australia to undertake my 6-week LiA project with the not-for-profit Big Group Hug.
In my free time, I love to spend time with friends and family, bake, go for walks, and play with my cocker spaniel! I am also passionate about volunteering, various sports, reading, and music!
Feel free to get in touch!
I am a first-year BSc International Relations and History student at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
My relevant experiences span research, writing, and social impact initiatives around geopolitics and socio-economic development. I wish to understand and address the structural drivers of global asymmetries, particularly educational, gender, and postcolonial inequalities.
This summer, for my LiA, I will work with the British Red Cross, evaluating its “Flooding: Aware, Prepare, Care” adult education programme. Using mixed-methods research, including qualitative fieldwork and programme evaluation, I will assess how effectively the intervention improves flood risk awareness and preparedness.
