Dilara Saglam- My Cardew Group Internship Reflection

As a Master’s student in Government Studies at King’s College London, where I’m privileged to study under the prestigious Strand Group, I’ve always been interested in the intersection of policy, politics, and public affairs. Two weeks at the Cardew Group offered a masterclass experience in the alchemy of policy influence- where political insight meets strategic communication. The internship gave me a unique opportunity to translate theoretical frameworks of governance into action within real-world political contexts.

Incorporating hands-on experience alongside my studies remains an imperative priority for me. I found Cardew’s Westminster-centred work to align perfectly with my academic focus on governance and decision-making bodies. Cardew provided an invaluable opportunity to put into practice the concepts central to my degree, such as governance, political strategy, and policy analysis. Through stakeholder mapping and legislative monitoring, I witnessed firsthand how strategic communications can alter the trajectory of policy debates. Researching prominent policy issues, including UK/China policy developments, for clients across sectors such as finance, energy, and tech, I drafted briefings that connected legislative changes to real-world business impacts. Behind the scenes, preparing materials for high-profile client meetings revealed the intricate machinery of influence, where rigorous research and cultivated relationships merge to shape outcomes. These experiences have collectively furthered my appreciation for the nuanced interplay between policy analysis and political strategy.

It was also a privilege to collaborate with exceptionally talented individuals- their generosity in sharing expertise, along with the team’s collegial spirit, profoundly enriched both my professional skills and academic perspective.

This internship has confirmed my ambitions to build a career at the heart of Westminster’s policy landscape. My goal ultimately lies in working at the forefront of public policy, whether in government, consultancy, or political strategy. Cardew’s focus on converging business and politics resonated deeply- much like my previous positions, from analysing welfare reforms at Citizens Advice to supporting innovation policy in the Civil Service.

The Cardew Group's approach - which so clearly reflects the Strand Group's emphasis on marrying academic excellence with practical policy impact - has been instrumental in shaping my professional development. As I complete my Master’s, I’m excited to take these lessons forward—and to keep exploring how policy can be a force for tangible change. I am looking forward to pursuing a career in the Civil Service at the Home Office after my studies.