Clare Daly

As an intern with Stratagem, I monitored the political activity at both Westminster and Stormont. In a short space of time I learnt the ambition and objectives of each client and shared relevant political news with them. This also involved attending committee meetings in order to produce a bespoke, written report tailored to specific client interests.

My pathway included extensive research into diversity and party politics within the UK framework. I completed a thesis evaluating gender issues within the main political parties in Northern Ireland, carrying out many one to one interviews with MLAs and Councillors.

My course included analytic approaches to the works of Kant and Mill and detailed political theory research including post structuralism, feminism and critical thought. In addition, the skills and methods module of the course allowed me to develop research and organisational skills to deal with complex issues and come to sound judgments; independently and as part of a team. My dissertation topic on opinion polling allowed me to delve into the work of a social researcher and appreciate the value and limitations of public opinion measurements. I also organised a paid research placement as part of my undergraduate degree.