Exeter alumna helping to oversee building projects in developing world

The alumna, who is currently living and working in Moldova, spends much of her time abroad setting up the projects and visiting local partners. Last year she spent four months living in Uganda building a nursery school.

Clare says: ‘It is truly rewarding and inspiring to watch people’s lives being transformed in front of your eyes and to know that you played a part in that transformation.’ ‘Studying French taught me the importance of communication – an essential skill for working in different countries where you don’t necessarily speak the same language. Communicating clearly enables my projects to run smoothly, to time and to budget.

'Appreciating a different culture and way of life also enables me to learn from the people I work with – doing something differently does not mean it is wrong and we can all learn a great deal from others. She adds that being a student at Exeter not only allowed her to become fluent in a major world language, but ‘also taught me about my own strengths and skills and paved the way for my move into international development work.’

‘I loved the opportunities that Exeter offered me – from clubs and societies to join, to music and sport – there really is something for everyone, no matter what your taste is. Exeter for me was about so much more than my degree – I met friends for life, enjoyed my free time and got to live in the South of France for a year – all during my degree at Exeter.’ For more information, see www.missiondirect.org