As we celebrate Winter Graduation, I warmly congratulate the postgraduate Class of 2023/2024 from the School of Global Studies of the University of Sussex.

This academic year has been an extraordinary journey of learning, enriched by the diversity and cultural vibrancy of Sussex, which has broadened our perspectives on the world.

It has been a privilege to represent the International Relations class and department as a Student Rep and to contribute to the Global Studies Student Experience Group (SSEG). Working to ensure students’ voices were heard and their needs addressed has been deeply rewarding.

Wishing everyone a future filled with growth and success. 

Shayron Tower 

IR Student Rep 

Class of 2023/2024

Happy New Year to everyone! May 2025 bring you renewed strength and steadfast determination to pursue your goals and fulfil your most heartfelt aspirations.

My favourite songs of 2024. 

1. Almost (Sweet Music) – Hozier
2. Arcade – Duncan Laurence
3. Be Kind – Zak Abel
4. Catch 22 – Alli, Anne-Marie
5. Clouds – JVKE
6. Cloudy Day – Tones and I
7. Esta Vida – Marshmello ft. Farruko
8. Fairytale – Livingston
9. Kleur – Snelle
10. La Vida la Vida – Joséan Log
11. Lullaby – Rilan
12. Mi Amor – Sam Feldt, JVKE, Annits
13. Mona Lisa – Dominic Fike
14. Praise Jah in the Moonlight – YG Markey
15. Pretty Slowly – Benson Boone
16. Too Sweet – Hozier
17. What Love Is – Zimmer90
18. What Would I Change It To – Avicii
19. Whisper – Myles Smith
20. Why Why Why – Shawn Mendes

A few days ago, I was reading the holiday messages I’ve written over the past eight years, and it made me realise how far I’ve come, how much I’ve grown, and how much the world has changed around me.

2024 is no exception. It has felt like a novel—a year full of emotions, with its highs and lows. A year of memorable moments, special people, and meaningful achievements, but also of tough lessons. Through it all, the sunny days have taught me to cherish the present, and the cloudy ones have helped me find strength in the good within and around me.

This year, as with the good moments, there were people who made the tough days easier and the good days even better. I’m grateful to those who have reminded me how lucky I am for my life and for the people—like them—who are part of it.

There’s so much I will carry with me and be thankful for in 2024 because every experience, whether sweet or bitter, shapes us. And as we grow, we eventually find our way to where we need to be.

As the year draws to a close and a new one begins, I wish everyone happiness within themselves and in the simplicity of life. May you find your path and discover peace in your surroundings.

Happy holidays to everyone!

A hardworking, persistent, independent woman of faith – these are just some of the many words that describe who my late grandmother was.

Her life was a testament to how hard work and dedication can take you where you need to be.

She always had something to share – whether it was a story from her past, a tale from a novel or history book she had read, or a verse from the Bible – and each one always carried a lesson to be learned.

We were fortunate to have had her in our lives. She was always there for anyone who needed her and kept us all close, from childhood to adulthood.

Thank you, grann', for scolding us when necessary, for being our home dentist, seamstress, and counsellor, and for looking after us as we grew up.

You will forever be remembered by those of us who cherished your company and loved you dearly.

Fly high – you are now with the love of your life.

Rest in peace, grandma!

I am happy to share that I have officially completed my postgraduate studies and can now proudly say that I hold a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Sussex.

Gratitude is what I feel right now. I am thankful to our Creator and to everyone who accompanied me throughout this journey—those near and far—encouraging me to give my all and reminding me of the potential I have within.

This achievement represents many years of hard work and selfless service, which have provided me with the tools, consciousness and motivation to continue striving to make a difference and to keep growing as a person.

This experience not only brought me the fruit of knowledge but also offered valuable lessons that contributed to my personal and professional growth, as well as moments and people I am forever grateful to have encountered and shared with.

I dedicate this accomplishment to those who have always been present, providing me with the drive and support I needed throughout this year, as well as to the people who have stood by my side through various stages of my life.

The best is yet to come!

Shayron Tower, MA