Christos Panayi graduated from Kent with a Law LLB degree in 2014. He now works as a Data Protection Specialist for the World Food Programme of the United Nations
What attracted you to your course, and to Kent?
I realised that I had a talent in social sciences and I was always quite argumentative and interested in justice. That is why I decided to do law. Kent was one of my first choices because I had the chance to visit the Canterbury campus while I was still applying. I fell in love with the place instantly.
Which aspects of your degree did you enjoy the most, and why?
I really liked the critical thinking aspects of my course and the fact that I could choose classes offered from other departments. I took full advantage of that, taking some politics and philosophy classes to compliment my legal training.
What impressed you most about our academic staff?
How approachable they were. Always willing to have a chat and discuss anything in depth. I found most of my professors to be relatable and felt accepted and safe when expressing myself.
Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now in your career?
Drafting, policy-making and analytical thinking is what I do on a daily basis.
Did you undertake any work experience whilst at Kent? What did you do? Did you find it was helpful in your studies and has it benefited your career to date?
I was working part time for the law school. In my second year I started recording lectures and in my third year I was in charge of the recordings, working with a team of around 10 students and under the supervision of Mark Dean. I was also performing as a musician downtown for the Greek societies. My work with the law school was extremely helpful. I created personal relationships with the support staff and with many lecturers. I felt a sense of responsibility and belonging that definitely contributed positively to my experience. I guess some of the management skills were transferable to my subsequent career as well.
Could you describe a typical day in your current role?
The World Food Programme is one of the largest humanitarian organizations in the world providing assistance to roughly 100 million people worldwide on a daily basis. My role is advising on data protection (mainly personal data protection) issues that arise in programmatic, contractual, technical or other processes. I also draft policies for the organization and lead a Technical Working Group for the ethical use of drones in the humanitarian context.
What are your future plans/aspirations?
I do not have specific future plans or aspirations. My wish is that I continue being so privileged to provide my work to a cause that inspires me every day.
What is your favourite memory of Kent?
There are so many. My first day on campus and in my dorm is really up there. But I always reminisce on some random Friday afternoons at Origins enjoying burgers with curly fries with friends after a hard week’s work and before going downtown. Or being part of the Volleyball team, travelling around the country representing the university and always beating Christ Church at our varsity games.
What advice would you give to somebody thinking of coming to Kent?
The campus experience at one of the best law schools in the country is unmatched. Having gone to a what is regarded as a top five university in London for my Master’s, I would insist that the experience that one gets at Kent is much more wholesome and more valuable both on a personal and academic level. You really get to interact with your professors and colleagues and that is where real growth lies.
How would you describe your time at Kent in three words?
Inspired, wholesome, awesome.