MA Certificate of Merit Global Affairs

Janeth Rodriguez is graduating from the Global Affairs MA program specializing in Global Conflict and Security. Janeth currently works at USAID as a desk officer in the Middle East Bureau and has also served with the Army National Guard. Janeth’s primary focus was on gender and Latin America, and she was able to deepen her understanding throughout her GLOA classes. She also had the opportunity to participate in the seminar abroad Between Europe and the World program with Professor Repinecz, where she expanded her understanding of the decolonization of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Janeth is grateful to all her professors, especially Dr. Cortney Rinker and Dr. Yasmine Ipek, for their assistance and guidance throughout her learning experience. Janeth would also like to thank her husband for his constant support throughout the program. 

This semester, Morgan is graduating with her M.A. in Global Affairs, concentrating in Global Culture and Society. Her favorite class this semester was GLOA 720 led by Dr. Lisa Breglia. Morgan appreciated the opportunity to fine-tune her research skills, while specializing her degree work with a thesis project under such an experienced researcher as Dr. Breglia. Before beginning her time in the Global Affairs program as an undergraduate student, Morgan had never travelled abroad. Upon completing her degree work with a minor in Mandarin, she received the opportunity to travel to Taiwan for school and work. Now, she is excited to be graduating from the Global Affairs M.A. program and is ready to explore the new adventures awaiting her on the path to becoming a pro-migration, immigration attorney. 

Morgan would like to thank Dr. Niklas Hultin for introducing her to the field and paving the way for her to begin exploring travel opportunities. She would also like to thank her father, Mr. Robert Spears, for supporting her transition into the major and helping to guide her along the way. Additionally, she would like to thank her mentors in the Global Affairs Department, Ms. Erika Marquina, Ms. Virginia Holm, Ms. Jessica Ashley, and Ms. Megan Bruening in the Office of Fellowships, for their guidance and support throughout her time at Mason.