#GraduateStories: My Journey from Ashoka to Oxford

I really mean it when I say that Ashoka has been so much more than just an academic space for me – it is where I found my footing and grew into the person I am today. The liberal arts education at Ashoka gave me direction and clarity. My work as a research intern in several policy-centric roles and, later, applying to grad school, were all motivated by what I learnt at Ashoka.

The interdisciplinary environment of Ashoka didn’t just shape what I learned, it changed the way I approach problems. Courses across Political Science and International Relations taught me that complex issues rarely have one-dimensional answers. Whether in lectures or beyond them, I learned to ask sharper questions, consider multiple perspectives, and connect abstract ideas to real-world contexts. This practice of thinking critically and across disciplines has stayed with me, especially as I prepare to pursue my postgraduate studies at Oxford as a postgraduate student of MSc in Comparative Social Policy.

One of the initial courses that deeply influenced me was Economy, Politics, and Society, which I took in my first semester. It helped me see how academic theories actually play out in the real world, how governance and development are closely linked, and how political structures shape everyday life.

But if I had to name someone who made a lasting impact, it would be Professor Nayan Chanda. I took three courses with him and also had the chance to work as his Teaching Assistant. He was always encouraging and supportive, and insisted on clarity of thought and expression. He never let me hide behind vague ideas, and I’m genuinely better for it.

Wednesday night RA meetings were, without a doubt, some of my favourite moments. They were filled with laughter, reflection, and a real sense of belonging. Sitting in a circle with fellow RAs, sometimes venting and sometimes planning, reminded me that even during chaotic weeks, there’s value in simply showing up for each other. And after that, the late-night walks to Chai 24 were the best part. We’d sit with tea, talk about everything and nothing, and just unwind. Those nights made all the stress worth it.

My advice to the new batch of Ashokans arriving soon would be to please be open, even when things feel uncomfortable or overwhelming. Some of the most meaningful connections I made at Ashoka began with small, unexpected conversations in the mess, in class, or during late-night walks. Don’t worry about finding your people right away. It takes time, and that’s completely okay. Just stay curious about others.

When it comes to challenges, remember you don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Reach out to friends, professors, or your RAs. This campus is full of people who genuinely want to support you, but they can only do that if you let them in. It’s okay to stumble. What matters most is that you keep showing up.

– Written by Harsh Kumar Jha, UG Political Science 2025 Batch