05-05-2025
- Politics
- Free Malaysia Today
Building a generation of future-ready diplomats
Taylor's University's second-year student Mariyam Zihnee Rasheed at the United Nations Headquarters during the prestigious CWMUN 2025 in New York City. (Taylor's University pic)
PETALING JAYA : Taylor's University's Mariyam Zihnee Rasheed was able to achieve an early milestone in her journey in international diplomacy when she was handpicked to represent the Maldives at the prestigious Change the World Model United Nations (CWMUN) 2025 in New York City.
Mariyam is a second-year student of the Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations at Taylor's University.
'Out of 150,000 global applicants, only 5% were chosen. Mariyam's achievement reflects both her talent and the environment we foster at Taylor's,' remarked Dr Andrea Passeri, Programme Director of the Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations at Taylor's University.
Mariyam set her sights on global diplomacy after careful research, which led her to Taylor's. Drawn by its strong diplomacy curriculum and vibrant campus life, she found the perfect fit for her dream of becoming a diplomat.
Mariyam also said that being a part of Taylor's International Relations Society discussions on US politics helped broaden her global perspectives on the issue of international diplomacy.
Learning through industry experiences
'Taylor's has been a big part of my journey to CWMUN,' Mariyam said, adding that the highlight for her was the UN Security Council simulation, which helped sharpen her public speaking skills besides providing her with much-needed practical experience.
She credited industry insights for bridging the gap between textbook learning and real-world experience.
'Learning from experts, along with Taylor's structured approach for exams, simulations, and projects, gave me real insights into international diplomacy,' Mariyam shared.
Mariyam (third from right) with her fellow course mates at the AYEA Conference 2024 in Jakarta, where they collaborated with global leaders on pressing environmental and sustainability issues. (Taylor's University pic)
This strong foundation led Mariyam to the ASEAN+ Youth Environmental Action (AYEA) Conference 2024 in Jakarta, where she engaged with world leaders, participated in sustainability dialogues, and gained hands-on diplomatic experience. 'It's also one of my most memorable experiences at Taylor's,' Mariyam said.
Real-world learning, global impact
Taylor's University offers Southeast Asia's first Work-Based Learning (WBL) International Relations programme, blending theory with hands-on experience on global issues and foreign policy.
A key highlight of the WBL model is that in the third year, students lead impactful projects that go beyond traditional internships.
'It boosts career readiness and employability, proven by the success of our graduates since 2021,' said Passeri.
Taylor's collaborates with organisations such as the Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) and Women's Aid Organisation (WAO) to strengthen real-world learning, giving students firsthand experience in policy design and community engagement.
'We're growing our network with more diplomatic and policy institutions to give students a truly global learning experience,' Passeri said.
Dr Andrea Passeri, Programme Director of the Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations at Taylor's University. (Taylor's University pic)
The programme will be introducing the 'Distinguished Diplomat Series', a platform for candid, face-to-face conversations with top diplomats and experts in international relations.
Hosted by Malaysian diplomat Dr ilango Karuppannan, the series gives students rare insights into real-world diplomacy and pressing global issues.
Shaping future diplomats
With its forward-thinking curriculum and real-world experiences, Taylor's University is shaping the next generation of diplomats and leaders.
'Mariyam is just one example – our recent graduates are already making their mark in the Malaysian Parliament, regional non-governmental organisations, and global companies,' Passeri added.
To learn more about Taylor's University's Bachelor of Social Science (Honours) in International Relations programme and how it can help you achieve your aspirations, visit Taylor's University website.
