Finding a sense of belonging in a global classroom
For Seb James, the ultimate goal was always centered on public service. Having already worked for Members of Parliament in government, Seb wanted a qualification that would build on his interest in global affairs while sharpening his long-term employability. When he first visited the University of Staffordshire's Stoke campus, it was an instant match.
"I fell in love with the university the first time I visited," Seb remembers. "The campus was incredibly inviting and everyone I spoke to seemed to be genuinely happy to be there."
He enrolled in the MA International Security programme. Even though he pursued his studies as a distance learner, the virtual environment provided an unexpectedly powerful platform for his growth, reshaping how he viewed his future.
The turning point: A launchpad for frontline politics
Studying remotely alongside a diverse group of peers quickly became the catalyst for Seb’s political ambitions. Rather than feeling isolated, he found himself deeply inspired by the varied backgrounds of his classmates.
"Being able to communicate with a broad range of individuals and truly understand the value of each contribution made me want to go into frontline politics," he says. "I remember listening to a former service personnel during an online session, and his lived experience really showed me the depth of quality we had available in our cohort."
The course's deep dive into geopolitics paid off immediately. After graduating in 2025, Seb returned to Parliament to work for an MP who also served as a trade envoy to Brazil. The advanced knowledge he gained at Staffs proved invaluable, directly grounding the strategic briefings he prepared for the member, while he managed the fast-paced, unpredictable day-to-day realities of public casework.
From a single-parent household to the Sunday Times 30 Under 30
Seb's trajectory into public office has been nothing short of meteoric. Driven by a desire to champion local communities, he transitioned to the front lines of local government and was elected as a County Councillor for Worcestershire County Council.
Representing over 8,500 residents across rural Worcestershire, Seb thrives in a role where no two days are ever the same. His primary responsibility is resolving complex resident issues, often supporting individuals navigating emotional difficulties and vulnerable circumstances.
His impactful work has captured widespread national attention. Seb was named New Councillor of the Year 2025 and was featured on the prestigious The Sunday Times 30 Under 30 list. He has also been formally selected as an approved parliamentary candidate for the next general election - a milestone that holds deep personal significance.
"I'm incredibly proud that I came from a single-parent household on the absolute verge of poverty and have managed to succeed," he shares. "I have been fortunate to have incredible mentorship from members of the House of Lords and the Shadow Cabinet. Now, I love public speaking and mentoring other budding politicians. Speaking to the next generation is incredibly rewarding."
Proud to be Staffordshire
For Seb, the true value of his time at Staffordshire extended far beyond the syllabus. It was the place where he conquered his self-doubt and embraced his unique perspective.
"Staffordshire teaches you to be unashamedly you," Seb says. "I came in with real imposter syndrome, but that was quickly washed away. Staffordshire gave me a sense of belonging, knowing that any room I entered, I would bring a value or a lived experience that mattered."
To the current generation of students preparing to make their own mark on the world, Seb offers a message of unwavering encouragement:
"It’s cliché, but there really is nothing you cannot achieve. So many people assume the current generation isn't an effective one, but just look at how much we have overcome. Staffs will help you find your people, help you discover who you are, and enable you to become who you want to be."
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