Alumni Profile - Cameron Dasgupta
Cameron completed a degree in Politics and International Relations with a Year Abroad in 2023, and is currently a Senior Account Executive in International Affairs at Burson (a WPP company), where he advises foreign governments, embassies, and global firms on strategic communications, reputation management, and geopolitical issues.
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Cameron completed a degree in Politics and International Relations with a Year Abroad in 2023.
What are you doing now, and how did you get there from Queen Mary?
My career has been shaped by a deep curiosity about how politics, communication, and human behaviour influence the world. This interest began at Queen Mary and grew during my year abroad at the University of Texas at Austin, where I served as a Director at College Houses Inc and became involved in the organisation's external affairs. Upon returning to the UK, Queen Mary helped me secure an internship in Parliament with Alan Mak MP, where I drafted communication materials and managed media engagement. These experiences provided by Queen Mary enabled me, upon graduating, to work at leading global advisory firms including Brunswick Group and APCO Worldwide, before joining Burson in 2025.
How has your degree helped you in your professional life?
My Politics and International Relations degree exposed me to diverse perspectives and intellectually challenging ideas, deeply shaping how I view the world today. Queen Mary gave me the confidence to question assumptions, embrace new opportunities, and commit to lifelong learning, qualities that define how I approach my work every day.
Beyond the classroom, the university provided a launchpad for personal and professional growth. Whether studying abroad in Texas, participating in the debating society, interning in Parliament, or utilising the excellent career support services, each experience challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and build a versatile skill set.
What skills, experiences or ways of thinking from your time at Queen Mary have stayed with you?
The most valuable mindset I gained was the willingness to challenge established ideas and view problems from multiple angles. Some of my best learning happened during debates in seminars and the late-night discussions with peers that continued long after classes had finished. Queen Mary fosters an environment that celebrates independent thinking, which gave me the confidence to innovate and challenge conventional wisdom in my career.
This entrepreneurial spirit inspired me to launch Cocktails & Connections, a professional networking series designed to bring people together from different industries in a relaxed, meaningful setting. I saw a gap in the market and wanted to create a better way for professionals to connect. Queen Mary taught me to trust my instincts, think independently, and back myself to turn an idea into reality.
What advice would you give current students thinking about their future careers?
Stay curious, and don't worry if your career path isn't perfectly mapped out from day one. Careers are rarely linear, and the most transformative experiences often come from unexpected places. Studying abroad, working in Parliament, and launching my own networking series all happened because I was willing to say 'yes,' meet new people, and remain open to the unknown. Curiosity will open far more doors for you than a rigid, pre-planned path ever could.
Additionally, remember that everything comes down to communication. Whatever profession you choose, your ability to articulate your ideas, tell a compelling story, and connect your unique experiences to the opportunities in front of you will always set you apart.
What was your favourite module and why?
My favourite module was Foreign Policy Analysis, taught by Dr James Strong. It completely transformed my understanding of international politics by illustrating just how complex state decision-making really is. Rather than treating nations as single, monolithic actors, the module explored the competing domestic interests, institutions, and individuals that shape policy. Since this module took place online during the covid-19 pandemic, I spent much of my lockdown exploring these topics in depth by reading through the further reading list and discussing them with my lecturer.
What is one thing you wish you had known when you were a student?
I wish I had realised sooner that the passions you pursue outside of your studies are just as valuable as your academic credentials. Since graduating, I have taken up martial arts, which has taught me patience, discipline, and how to stay calm under pressure - skills that are invaluable in a fast-paced communications career. Building a fulfilling life isn't about separating your career from your personal interests; the two often feed into each other in unexpected, rewarding ways.