I am delighted to be able to share the ‘Reflection’ issue of InTouch Online with you. The theme seems fitting as, in this issue, we are celebrating 60 years of the Department of War Studies. When the department was established, the pressing conflict was the Cold War. Although the landscape has changed significantly since then, the need to understand conflict of all kinds is more important than ever. In ‘King’s Impact’, we hear from alumni about their experiences of studying with us, and we share exciting plans for a brand-new scholarship programme to celebrate this milestone.
In ‘Inside King’s’, we welcome back alumna and Editor-in-Chief of ELLE UK magazine, Farrah Storr (French with English, 2001), who recently returned to campus to interview Professor Shitij Kapur, King’s new President & Principal. Watch this ‘hot-off-the-press’ exclusive here in InTouch Online.
One of our most notable alumni, and King’s Fellow, author Hanif Kureishi (Philosophy, 1977), reflects on his time studying at King’s in the 70s in ‘What I’ve Learned’. Hanif graduated in 1977 and, not long after, was nominated for an Academy Award for the screenplay of My Beautiful Laundrette. Sharing memories of his efforts to gain a place at King’s, becoming part of London’s booming punk scene, and making a career as a writer, this is not one to be missed.
Also in this issue:
In ‘Spotlight on Springboard’, we explore the work of King’s Internships, which recently launched the Springboard and Advance internship schemes, both of which are focused on widening participation for underrepresented groups. Find out about the difference they’re making to the students taking part and the businesses hosting them.
In ‘InTouch Introduces…’, we meet the winners of this year’s Distinguished Alumni Awards, with special highlights from our online awards ceremony hosted by comedy extraordinaire Rory Bremner (French & German, 1984).
And don’t miss out on your regular favourites: ‘Living Abroad’, ‘You Recommend’, and of course this issue’s crossword – complete and submit it for your chance to win £100 of Amazon vouchers.
We hope that you enjoy reading this issue. Why not let us know what you think in the feedback form? We’ve loved seeing your feedback in this section, and of course you can email us at forever@kcl.ac.uk.
Happy reading,
Rachelle Arthey
Editor