Anna was a Highly Commended Entrant for the Politics & International Relations category in 2016.

Since the awards, she has completed her joint Undergraduate Degree in International Relations and Social Anthropology and is currently in her final year of her PhD in Social Anthropology at the University of St. Andrews.

What are you doing now and what has happened since the award?

After the award, I completed my joint degree and then worked for a year at the Liechtenstein Embassy in Vienna. During this time, I applied for PhD positions –and then took up my current position as a PhD researcher right after the post at the embassy. For my research project I spent 18 months in Oslo, Norway doing ethnographic fieldwork. Now I am in the final year of my doctorate degree and am writing up my thesis, working on research papers, and actively engage in public engagement projects.

Where do your interests lie?

Ever since I was a teenager I wanted to do something about climate change. Now, in my current position, I get to work on something that I not only find interesting but also meaningful; I try to share my insights on how the leaders and experts of energy companies impact the future of energy in light of climate change. In my spare time, I try to communicate as much as possible my research experience with the public. E.g. through blog posts, podcasts, and also via Instagram account.

Since learning more about energy, climate change, and sustainability I also try to use this knowledge in my private life. In my free time, I spend a lot of time in nature; kayaking,swimming, hiking, walking. I also forage for food (wild herbs, mushrooms, berries) and spend time with my puppy named “Trouffa” (truffles). By extension, I love cooking and always try to integrate seasonal, local, organic and foraged food in my recipes.

Has receiving an award for your hard work helped?

Even though my undergraduate work had a different focus to what I am currently working on, it was great to be a highly recommended entrant of the UA Awards. It boosted my confidence in my academic skills, and it was recognised as an achievement in job applications.

Why should students submit their work?

Submitting to the UA is great practise for future academic submissions. It’s a great way to get your work noticed and recognised, to become a part of a network that transcends your university, and of course – if your submissions gets selected – it looks great on your CV!

What are your plans for the future?

I hope to continue to pursue my work on matters of sustainability and leadership. I think understanding how people in strategic positions relate to global phenomena like climate change is key in finding solutions to societal issues!