Dundee beginnings to global advocacy

Dundee roots

Sara was born in Dundee but moved away when she was very young. Her parents, both Dundee born and bred, never had the opportunity to pursue higher education. That fact made her decision to study at the University of Dundee deeply personal. For Sara, enrolling at Dundee felt like writing a love letter to her parents and to the city that had always been at the heart of her family’s story.

Learning online, growing academically

Sara completed her Master of Education (MEd) online, which gave her the flexibility to balance part-time study with full-time work. This allowed her to develop her academic knowledge while immediately applying new theories and approaches to her professional practice.

“The MEd gave me not just theoretical knowledge, but also the confidence to put that knowledge into practice every day,” she says.

The programme shaped her research lens, equipping her to examine educational inequalities through a critical and socially aware perspective. It was during her MEd that Sara began to focus on gender inequality in education, exploring how systemic barriers prevent girls from accessing learning opportunities and how educators can create more inclusive classrooms.

Building confidence and academic leadership

Beyond knowledge, the MEd helped Sara grow in confidence and take on leadership roles. Since graduating, she has been appointed Head of English at SEK International School in Budapest, Hungary, where she draws daily on the research-based skills and critical frameworks introduced during her Dundee studies.

Mentoring and shaping future educators

Sara’s professional journey has also led her to mentor trainee teachers. Accepted by Hungarian universities as a mentor, she supports aspiring educators as they navigate their first classroom experiences.

“Being a mentor allows me to share what I’ve learned, but also to learn from the next generation of teachers. It’s inspiring to see their energy and ideas, and to help them build confidence as they begin their own teaching journeys,” Sara explains.

From MEd to PhD: Advancing research and advocacy

The critical thinking and research skills Sara developed during her MEd inspired her to pursue further study. She is now undertaking a PhD in Education and Social Justice at the University of Lancaster, focusing on gender inequality and the human rights of ethnic minority children, their access to education, and the barriers they face.

“Because of my parents’ hard work and resilience, I had access to opportunities and education that many children today still don’t. My research aims to shed light on these inequalities and advocate for change, especially in gender equality and language education, ensuring every girl has the right to attend school,” she says.

A journey of purpose and research

Looking back, Sara sees her time at Dundee as transformative, both professionally and academically. It allowed her to develop a distinct research lens, build leadership skills, and grow confidence in her ability to influence education beyond the classroom. For Sara, the MEd was more than a degree; it was the foundation for her continuing journey in research, advocacy, and shaping equitable educational practice worldwide.