I was born in Reading within the Pakistani community in Cemetery Junction and have lived in Reading for most of my life. I started working here in 2011, initially starting on a fixed-term, part-time contract in the Meteorology Department. My role was as a departmental secretary, joining what was then a small team of administrators. The work was varied and interesting and brought me into contact with a wide range of people from all over the world.
I joined the University in 2006 as a Teaching Fellow, before becoming a lecturer. I have always liked the green environment at the University. Few people can boast that their law school looks out on a lake!
I teach the public law courses, a constitutional law module, administrative law and human rights. I also teach legal philosophy and a University-wide module called "Liberty" with input from classics, history and philosophy.
After adoption leave, coming back to work meant adapting to a landscape that felt both familiar and new. A recently merged team, unfamiliar faces, and a different management structure made it feel like I was stepping into uncharted territory.
I was incredibly lucky to have unwavering support from a couple of wonderful colleagues and my new line manager. Their understanding made the transition smoother and far less daunting.
I am an Associate Professor for English for Academic Purposes (EAP) at the Global Academy. My role primarily is to teach and support international students at the University whose first language is not English both before and during their degrees.
I am passionate about language and education and have never regretted this choice of career which led me to working in six different countries before finally returning to my own. I’ve taught on a range of exciting projects across state and commercial sectors, such as the British Council developed Peacekeeping English Project. These experiences and skills have helped me to connect with the diverse international student body at Reading. Students who would otherwise feel less confident in seminars, light up when you share first-hand insights of their culture or country. What’s more, my colleagues in the Global Academy reflect the diversity of our School with a fusion of backgrounds, interests, ambitions, languages, and qualifications.
