Chance, community and a career in diplomacy
Chance brought Bilal Zahid (MA Hons 2007) to St Andrews after a last-minute change to his UCAS application. Here, he forged lasting friendships and deepened his passion for giving back to the community. Bilal is now His Majesty’s Ambassador to Slovakia, representing UK interests overseas.
I ended up studying at the University of St Andrews by complete coincidence. I hadn’t originally applied to St Andrews, but one of my choices on the UCAS application form withdrew their course, so I was invited to apply for another course at that institution or elsewhere. I had some friends from school who had already received offers from St Andrews and I had heard great things. I started to do more research about the University and town – its academic reputation, international cohort, stunning location, and, for someone from rural Northern Ireland, it was not as big and intimidating in comparison to other universities. I decided to apply and was delighted to receive an offer. What a great coincidence that turned out to be!
Making memories and lasting friendships
Like many graduates, I have lots of fond memories to look back on from my four years at St Andrews. Firstly, and most importantly to me, I made friends for life. I keep in touch with many of them who are now dotted all over the globe, doing great things. For me, forging those friendships and having the opportunity to meet such a diverse range of people from around the world was the highlight of my time at the University. Coming from Northern Ireland, it was an eye-opening and enriching experience.
Beyond my studies, I managed to squeeze in time for many and varied extracurricular activities. I also partook in the University’s quirky traditions, including Raisin Weekend and May Dip, and loved the incredible beauty of Fife and its surroundings. I lived in Hamilton Hall (now Hamilton Grand) in my first year and often enjoyed morning runs along West Sands.
Giving back to the community
I also felt that it was important for me to give back to the community I lived in. I had the opportunity to become a member of the SupNet group, a group of student volunteers supporting the work of the Students’ Association and helping students through a variety of initiatives. I joined a Habitat for Humanity group, which allowed me to take part in a project in Malawi, and I volunteered at Rymonth Housing Society, a facility for people who need living assistance. I also participated in the infamous DON’T WALK fashion show for two years, which certainly pushed me out of my comfort zone!
It’s great to see so many of these groups and societies still going strong at St Andrews. It adds a lot to the student experience, and I always encourage students, where possible, to get involved in the wider life of the University and town.
Finding my feet
After graduation, it took a year or two to find my feet. I moved home to Northern Ireland and worked in several jobs in banking, the charity sector and the NHS. While I was keen to find a role linked to my degree in International Relations and my interest in overseas work, it was a useful opportunity to gain experience in the workplace.
I eventually applied and was accepted onto the UK Civil Service Fast Stream, a graduate entry scheme. My first role was in the Northern Ireland Office (NIO), which was a great experience given my roots. Since then, I have been lucky to have some interesting jobs within the NIO, the Cabinet Office, the Deputy Prime Minister’s office and the Foreign Office (now FCDO).
At the political coalface
Thinking back on career highlights and my proudest achievements so far, it is difficult to pick out just one. It was a real privilege to play a role in several political talks in Northern Ireland to restore the devolved government. I was leading a team on some very sensitive issues with a lot of political exposure. Of course, there were low points and many challenges, including Brexit and changing Prime Ministers, but through hard work and tenacity, we got there. It was particularly important for me, given that our primary objective was to ensure stability, peace and prosperity in Northern Ireland, my homeland, where my family and friends still live. That made it feel even more rewarding.
I enjoy travelling, and my role as the Deputy Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Private Secretary took me to many interesting places around the world. It was also a great learning experience for me, working in coalition government, at the coalface of politics.
More recently, I am proud of the role the UK played in response to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Unfortunately, more than four years on, Russia’s barbaric and unprovoked invasion continues. However, I am grateful that through my work I have had the opportunity to play a part in supporting Ukraine.
My current role as His Majesty’s Ambassador to Slovakia is an immense honour. I started in September 2025 and am really enjoying it. It’s a privilege to travel across this beautiful country and work on issues important to UK interests, including growth and security. Along the way, I have also met many Slovaks with strong connections to the UK, including some St Andrews graduates!
All views expressed in this story are those of the author.