Page content

Alexander Slaine, hailing from Banbridge, has graduated this summer from Ulster University with a first class honours degree in Communication, Advertising and Marketing (CAM).

Past pupil of Dromore High, Alexander has been interested in the media, journalism and politics from an early age:

“These interests were heightened when I studied journalism and performance arts for my A-Levels, I wanted to choose a degree that incorporated my strengths and interests and I believe CAM allowed me to develop both my personal and professional skill set.”

Alongside his studies Alexander worked part-time with the Northern Ireland Office as their communications intern. During this time, Alexander worked closely with then Secretary of State, Julian Smith, as well as supporting the wider ministerial team with events and royal family engagements.

While balancing his internship, Alexander thrived in his studies and won the Morrow Communications prize for achieving the highest dissertation grade in his course. His dissertation was based around the workings of Press Officers within era of modern day politics and was titled, Has the Current Landscape of Modern-Day Political Communication Influenced the Practices Carried out by Whitehall Press Officers.


Speaking on his achievement and how he balanced his academic career, Alexander stated:

“I think it is all about planning, being organised and time management, I mapped out my time, set my own internal deadlines and prioritised the most urgent tasks. Writing my dissertation was a process that was highly rewarding, interesting and something I could not have achieved without the help of my supervisor, Dr Phil Ramsey. It is a great piece of news to mark the end of my four years at Ulster University.”

On completion of his internship, Alexander was offered a full-time position as a Communications Assistant within the Northern Ireland Office’s Communications and External Relations team.

“I am thoroughly enjoying my role and extremely grateful to have the opportunity to be offered a full time position, given the current climate. Every day is different, fast paced and highly rewarding, often offering me once in a life time opportunities! I am excited to see what the future has in store for me, as I begin my career within the world of civil service communication.”