Born and raised in Singapore, Sarah had nearly a decade of experience as a young semi-professional in the performing arts. At 18, they moved across the world to pursue a Bachelor in International Relations in Spain. They held a number of roles during this time including as a research assistant with IE University (Segovia and Madrid), a social media manager with Madrid Bookie (now The Write Salon, Madrid), and a programme assistant at Onepeople.sg (Singapore). These experiences cultivated a strong skillset in critical and analytical thinking, as well as creativity and innovation in generating content and working on events.

Graduating into the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Sarah interned and later consulted with the International Crisis Group as a research assistant. During this time they were selected for the Hiroshima-ICAN Academy 2021 Special Program as well as the International Nuclear Safeguards Policy programme with the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, building a skillset and expertise in international conflict and communications. Sarah pursued this further with an MA in International War Studies, jointly delivered by the University of Potsdam and University College Dublin, where they were awarded the Friends of the Chair of War Studies Scholarship.

In Ireland, Sarah took the opportunity of another international move to rethink their career trajectory and rewire their experiences to fulfill their ever-present creative drive. Having previously upskilled with a University of Cambridge Undergraduate Diploma in English Literature and a Social Media certificate with Accenture, Sarah completed a publishing internship with Channel Literary Magazine and worked at UCD’s Applied Language Centre while completing their studies.

This journey as a student and a professional in Ireland then brought them to the Innovation Academy in the final months of their studies. The IA has proved to be a place where they could combine their analytical and creative background in an entrepreneurial and student-centric environment. As someone passionate about new experiences and challenges, Sarah is eager to support students throughout their journey at UCD, whether they are undergradutes or lifelong learners. Sarah also leverages their diverse background to continue fostering relationships with other units across and outside UCD, including internationally.

Outside of the IA, Sarah pursues a myriad of creative activities including singing and acting. They are currently working on a novel, and retain their passion for war history through independent research and writing. They also spend time volunteering including as a Trustee of the Tolkien Society.

Why I joined the IA…

“To support students the way I always hoped to be supported as a learner during my own education, and to grow their potential for new experiences within the context of their studies as well as for the working world they will graduate into.”