Born in Liechtenstein, Natalija graduated from our International Relations programmes (both BA and MA), completing her MA in 2020.
Why did you choose to study at Richmond?
I chose to attend Richmond partly because my sister started there the semester before me, and I saw firsthand the strong sense of community and the value of small classes, which made for a more personalized learning experience. The close-knit environment was a major factor, as it offered a welcoming space to connect with people from around the world. Living on campus, especially Richmond Castle, added an extra layer of uniqueness—studying in such a historic and picturesque setting was truly special and made my time there unforgettable.
What was your experience like at Richmond?
Living in London and studying at Richmond was an unforgettable experience. Immersing myself in such a vibrant, international community broadened my perspective and made my studies truly enriching. I’m grateful for the incredible professors who taught us with such passion and expertise, and the strong support system I found there. While I was perhaps too young to fully appreciate many moments and, in hindsight, wish I could have managed the workload differently, the sense of community and belonging at Richmond remains a highlight. Some of my closest, longtime friends attended Richmond, and now we’re celebrating life milestones together—attending each other’s weddings, and some even have babies. It’s truly come full circle, and I still cherish those bonds and memories to this day.
Did you complete any internships during your time at Richmond?
During my summer break, I had the opportunity to intern in private banking, which was a pivotal experience for me. I gained firsthand insight into the financial industry, working closely with experienced professionals who mentored me on wealth management and client relations. The internship was challenging, but it helped me develop a strong foundation in financial analysis and client service.
What does Liberal Arts mean to you?
To me, a Liberal Arts education represents a holistic approach to learning that goes beyond specializing in a single field. It’s about developing a broad, adaptable skill set that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and open-mindedness. Liberal Arts taught me how to analyze issues from multiple perspectives and communicate effectively, which has been invaluable in both personal growth and professional environments.
