Study Migration in Graduate School: Perspectives from London School of Economics and Political Science
This article features an interview with migration scholar E-beth Leach.
E-beth graduated in 2021 with a degree in International Relations from Boston University, where she concentrated on politics in North Africa and the Middle East.
During her college career, E-beth interned for Geneva International Centre for Justice and International Rescue Committee, where she discovered her passion for assisting refugee youth.
She is currently pursuing a MSc in International Migration and Public Policy Student at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
Q: What sparked your interest in studying international migration?
A: I’m interested in the refugee populations that are in need of humanitarian aid, particularly education. I think growing up in the Midwest, USA I was pretty sheltered from the rest of the world. Once I started traveling, I fell in love with the rest of the world’s cultures, politics, and people. Traveling has become my favorite hobby and I am fascinated by why people travel–whether by choice or force. This hobby soon evolved into an academic interest of forced migration, which I knew very little about growing up in my bubble that was physically far from the harsh realities forced migrants face. At BU, I focused on the MENA region which is where most refugees are from. I wanted to expand my knowledge of the region’s political and socio-economic atmosphere that was driving refugees to flee.
Q: What is a specific topic on migration that you are currently researching?
A: A topic I’m finding quite fascinating at the moment is how COVID-19 has negatively impacted the migrants and refugees in conflict areas. It’s a potential dissertation topic (due this summer) and I hope I can travel around the UK to conduct interviews and research!
Q: How has studying international migration enriched you, academically, professionally, and personally?
A: Academically, much of the program is Western/Eurocentric which has challenged me to look at the course content from multiple perspectives. I found it is important to challenge the author or professor’s argument in discussions, as well. I’m also learning how to analyze, deconstruct, and improve migration policies.
Professionally, working at big name organizations i.e. UNHCR, IOM, Amnesty, etc., is incredibly enticing for obvious reasons. However, I’ve become more wary of each organization’s modus operandi and what they’ve already accomplished. Then I ask myself if I agree with their operations and mission. In other words, I won’t jump the gun and work for a certain organization simply because of its name. Hoping to get a job very soon! Fingers crossed!!
Personally, this course has definitely put my life into perspective…It’s kind of ironic that I’m studying international migration as a migrant/international student. That being said, I’m an incredibly fortunate migrant that has a visa permitting me to study at a world renowned university in one of the coolest cities. Many migrants and refugees don’t have this privilege and I want to work in a field that makes these resources–visas, integration, education, jobs–more accessible.
Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge facing international migrant communities today? What is a potential solution?
A: THERE ARE SO MANY CHALLENGES! The first thing I thought of was the rhetoric used surrounding migration issues in the media. When there’s a migration or refugee incident, a lot of news sources will use “migration” and “refugee” interchangeably, which isn’t correct–most of them are refugees that are forced to embark on treacherous journeys to find safety. They need to call it what it is and not soften the severity of the situation. In these scenarios, the media decides to focus on the smugglers and traffickers instead of the root problem that causes refugees to flee. I think the media needs to hold states accountable for their (lack of) response. Finally, using the terms “alien” or “illegal immigrant” is incredibly inappropriate.
“Many migrants and refugees don’t have this privilege and I want to work in a field that makes these resources–visas, integration, education, jobs–more accessible.”
Program-specific Questions
Q: Tell us about the International Migration and Public Policy (IMPP) program at LSE (The London School of Economics and Political Science)
A: It’s very intense, but incredibly interesting. IMPP is a part of the European Institute (EI) department at LSE, which means the course revolves around European experiences, and most of my professors are from all across Europe (which is awesome)! My studies are multidisciplinary which means I can take classes outside of the EI and in the departments of development, government, law, or sociology. I’ve really enjoyed studying in a large cohort of 40+ people. However, it’s been hard to adjust to the British academic system. Overall, students in the IMPP are very sociable and eager to learn.
Q: What motivated you to run for student representative for your program? What do you hope to achieve in your year there?
A: I was pleased with how safe I felt at BU in terms of representation and resources. At LSE, I wanted to make sure my peers felt the same way. I’ve been pressuring the administration quite heavily on making mental health resources at LSE more available and promoting a pro-mental health environment on campus.
Q: How does the program relate to your professional aspirations in the future? How does the program help you achieve your career goals?
My goal after graduation is to work for an organization that advocates for refugee rights, particularly the right to education. This program has taught me to do my own research and advocacy regarding the global refugee issues. I’ve recently applied to a research position with UNICEF, a leading organization in child advocacy. I’m also fundraising for Refugee Action by running a half marathon this spring. I’m grateful that LSE has ample resources to prepare me professionally.
Thank you for sharing your amazing experiences and perspectives with us, E-Beth!
