From a young age, my grandfather who was a diplomat had instilled in me stories of committing to and helping society as seen as a duty. These alongside my Christian values has informed my tenacity to contribute to the betterment of society. Amongst many things, I’m passionate about fair and equal education and opportunities.”
Sharon Adebola, MA Government Studies student
12 March 2025
Aiming to help build a better society through a career in government
Sharon Adebola is hoping her MA in Government Studies, combined with her Politics BA degree, both studied here at King’s, will lead to a high-flying career in the civil service.
Sharon Adebola had always planned to go into Higher Education, in particular, a Russell Group university. On starting her undergraduate degree in politics at King’s, she was full of positivity and excited about the range of people she would meet, expanding her network and gaining as much career support as possible.
It was while study for her BA degree, that she was chosen as a finalist for the Black Heritage Undergraduate awards, which recognise those who are driving positive change within communities, breaking down barriers, acting as inspiring role models, and excelling academically.
After achieving her undergraduate degree, she decided to undertake the Master’s in Government Studies run by the Strand Group. She hoped it would teach her vital skills for a career in government and enable her to hear directly from politicians and civil servants who have been at the heart of government.
Recent speakers who have shared insights with students on the course include former UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt (Chancellor 2022 to 2024), Simon Case (Cabinet Secretary 2020-24), Professor Ed Balls (Shadow Chancellor 2011-15), Munira Mirza (Head of the Number 10 Policy Unit from 2019-2022) and Baroness Anji Hunter (Tony Blair’s Head of Government Relations 1997-01). Students have also visited the Houses of Parliament in Westminster and the Guildhall in the City of London.
She also became a governor of a primary school, having heard about it through King’s volunteering, as she wanted to ensure there was a young voice among governors, who tend to be older.
She is now hoping the course will enable her to start a career in the civil service and enable her to progress to the higher ranks, including becoming a permanent secretary.
She has found that being a postgraduate student offers a different lens and experience compared to an undergraduate degree and the course has exceeded her expectations. To anyone thinking of studying the MA, her advice is to “Do it!”
“My time at Kings has been good. I’ve had the opportunity to be taught by world-leading academics who are very passionate about what they do. If you have an interest in British governance, have a passion to aid the betterment of society and people, then this course is for you. It would be an experience that positively stretches you in an enjoyable way.
Sharon Adebola, MA Government Studies student