Graduate Student Ambassadors

What originally drew me to the Schar school was the uniqueness of the Biodefense program and what it offered at the intersection of national security policy and science. As I learned more about the school outside of my specific program, I gravitated towards the class flexibility as a working student, the opportunity to learn from in-field experts, and the support offered by Schar school staff. Unlike similar programs, Biodefense at Schar walks the line between true graduate biology courses and security studies. Other programs either are almost exclusively biology focused or lean more towards security studies. At Schar you get a true blend of both! Finally, by nature of being located outside of our Nations's capital students are opened up to a plethora of experiences surrounding the government.

BIOD 725 Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction

I was a Fulbright Scholar in Georgia!

I was interested in a different side of security, I want to pursue intelligence. But once I read over the Biodefense program, I knew its future and current relevance would promote growth and demand within the bigger field of intel. I was also looking to orient myself toward an MS over an MA. This program allowed for the culmination of multiple areas of interest. Currently, I am very interested in the relationship between intelligence, disease control, and nuclear weapons, which are study focuses in this program.

BIOD 609 Biodefense Strategy

The Patrick Henry Library

Unrelated to my current career ambitions, I eventually want to open a small business. It's a common dream with my sibling to own a small bookstore that doubles as a tea and pastry shop!

When I was first considering a master's degree program, I was looking for an international economics program that would also add some applications relevant to the current affairs and global policies. What drew me to the program was the Schar school and GCP program was the intersection of global economics and relations. While both disciplines are vital in today's rapidly changing economy, I felt the program fills the gap between the two. Therefore, giving the student a holistic and multidisciplinary view of the global economy.

Play the bass, exercise or watch some comedy movies.

Farmer's markets, concerts and trying out new restaurants.

What drew me to the Schar School was its robust interdisciplinary approach, which presented me with the chance to explore a diverse range of topics and immerse myself in new disciplines. The prime positioning of the campus significantly enhanced my academic journey, placing me in the heart of the subjects I was eager to study and enabling ongoing engagement with speakers and experts from various fields. Specifically, the Global Commerce and Policy (GCP) program stood out to me as it aligned closely with my undergraduate background, while offering comprehensive exploration into development, culture, technology, and trade. These areas, viewed through a policy lens, captivated my interest and underscored the program's relevance to my academic and career aspirations.

When the semester gets hectic, I dial back on screens and go for walks or cook with my family. Music is my escape; dancing at home just does the trick. I also jump at campus events – like that awesome silent dance party or cozy movie nights. It's really the simple things that keep me balanced.

POGO 750 Dangers of Technology: AI and Beyond

I chose to attend GMU's International Security Master's program for many reasons. First, they have a strong program that is well known throughout the international security/defense community, with a range of courses and experienced faculty. Second, the location was key as I live in Arlington and work in Congress which is just a short drive across the river and provides access to many agencies, think tanks, and networking opportunities. Third, I mentioned faculty in my first reason, but it also deserves its own category in that GMU professors are extremely influential in their own work and in the security arena. Fourth, GMU offers an affordable option for your graduate education.

PUBP 505 Politics and Practice of International Security Policy or ITRN 501 Data Analysis for Global Political Economy.

Going over to Eastern Market in the summer!

Coming from Mason Fairfax (undergraduate), it felt like a smooth transition as I liked both the style of teaching that George Mason offered, as well as the programs. International Security felt like a culmination of my undergrad Major in Global Affairs and Minor in Conflict Analysis & Resolution, so seeing it at GMU felt like a good fit. Additionally, the location makes it easy to attend events and find work/internships in related fields, especially in the government, or affiliated contractors, while attending school.

PUBP 504 Grand Strategy (instructed by Lee Roberts) was perhaps the single greatest class I've taken ever, not only in the Schar School.

I play Trombone in a Brass (Jazz) Band, so jamming out is always fun. Also, I enjoy hikes and gaming, and of course listening to music on the side of both.

If schedules align, I enjoy going to a board game cafe in Manassas.

Prior to applying, I conducted a lot of research on different programs and I truly liked the course overview for this program. I also knew I wanted to have some knowledge in intelligence but not major entirely in the field, and this program is the perfect match fit for me! I currently do a lot of policy writing and the current coursework has helped me within my career.

PUBP 506 Ethics and Use of Force by Professor Lee Roberts

My sister’s house because she has her own farm. I like to study and feed the animals!

There are several parts of the program that really sold me on applying. The program provides flexibility to the student, also the courses are on Friday evenings and Saturdays so it works really well with working professionals and personally allows me to spend time with family during the week. The ability to gain credentials from International Coaching Federation via satisfying the educational component is an excellent plus for the program.

ODKM 605 Group Dynamics and Team Learning

Currently serve on a non-profit board of ALPFA (Assoc Latino Professionals For America) Washington DC chapter.  We host events to provide professional networking opportunities for our members in the area.

The proximity to D.C. and professional opportunities/mentors, the flexibility of the program including in-person and online classes, the merit aid, and the respect the program has earned through its rankings and alumni base! I've had several friends attend GMU and have seen how the university has helped them excel in their careers, so after having a meeting with Graduate Admissions and learning more about the program I realized it was the place for me.

PUAD 662 National Budgeting Policy with Professor Listokin!

Honestly, the Arlington Central Library is so nice! But the Smithsonian museums (specifically the National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery of Art) are really fun to bring your readings to and crank them out. The plus of this is that when you want a break, you're already in world renowned museums!

When the weather is good, going to Shenandoah National Park or Harper's Ferry and going on a hike/picnic. There is so much nature around us that I find it really can center you!

Nationally-recognized professors, networking opportunities at all levels of government, certificate programs, diverse registered student organizations (RSOs).

POGO 750 Public Sector Leadership

De Clieu - a coffee shop in Fairfax City

Three factors about the Schar School MPP program really stood out to me compared to other MPP programs. The first is the location- the campus is right outside of D.C., which opens up fantastic career and networking opportunities. Additionally, the Schar School faculty members have invaluable experiences and expertise in both private and public sector fields. Lastly, the Schar School was a very affordable option for me compared to other graduate programs in the area.

GCP 605 Technology, Culture, and Commerce

Go on runs/ walks around my neighborhood in Arlington

I was drawn to Schar's MPP program for a few reasons. The proximity to Washington, DC was a huge factor, given the nature of my interests in defense policy. Additionally, the backgrounds of professors in the school - having a blend between academia and professional experience - presented a great opportunity to learn the most from them. Finally, Schar offering an emphasis area in national security and public policy at an affordable cost made the option of going back to school a reality for me.

I love to read! Curling up with a good (non-academic) book is my favorite past-time.

I love Northside Social, so close to campus and great food and drink options!

I grew up in the same area where President Bush (both 41 & 43) have their summer home, Walker’s Point!

In my undergraduate studies, I interned under a Schar School alumna and was impressed by her depth of knowledge of policy, specifically in the fields of national security policy and human trafficking prevention. I was drawn to the courses offered in these fields at the Schar School such as "Human Smuggling/Trafficking". I chose to study out-of-state at the Schar School because it offers the best Public Policy program close to our Nation's Capitol for the best value. The Schar School also has world renowned instructors and faculty with first-hand experience in every sector. I was also drawn to the intimate classroom setting Mason offers.

Yoga on the plaza!

Rollerblading through the National Mall.