Global Governance Concentration

Sophie Wagner, 2024

What was the most impactful class you took in your major? what made it so? The professor? The assignments? What you read or learned?  

The most impactful class that I took in my majors was the Global Affairs Honors in the Major capstone course. This class taught me the ins and outs of conducting publishable research, giving me the skills necessary to pursue research in the future. My writing, research, and organizational skills developed immensely during this course. I really appreciate the way Dr. Moore taught and organized this course, as well as how much helpful feedback she provided throughout its duration. 

What activities were you involved in during your time at Mason that impacted you? A club? Research? Internship? Study abroad? Can you describe that experience a bit? 

I have used my time at Mason to be a heavily involved student and leader. I am a founding board member of French Club, as well as its current Vice President. I served as Hillel’s Marketing Coordinator, as well as my sorority, Alpha Phi’s, Director of DEI. While remaining actively involved on campus, I studied abroad twice, once during a month-long French language program at Alliance Française in Paris, once during a semester-long international relations program at Sciences Po Paris. Studying abroad allowed me to broaden my worldview, have new experiences, better my French, and learn about international relations through global perspectives. Finally, I have sought out numerous professional experiences during my undergraduate career. I have done 5 internships, including at the French Embassy last semester, and currently with World Affairs Councils of America. I also am currently assisting a professor in the GGS department with research regarding knowledge about cascading climate disasters in Puerto Rico. These experiences have allowed me to strengthen my professional skills during my time in college, as well as taught me the importance of time management and remaining driven. 

What is your most memorable moment at Mason inside or outside of the classroom? Can you describe it?  

My most memorable moment at Mason was during my internship at the French Embassy. I was the Educational Team Intern in Cultural Services. On the second to last day of my internship, I had the opportunity to visit the Ambassador’s residence for an awards ceremony. It felt accomplishing to have this opportunity, and was such an exciting experience. I am extremely grateful to have interned at the French Embassy and connected with so many people from France for a joint professional experience and cultural exchange. 

As your reflecting on your time at Mason, what is one piece of advice you would give a student who is just starting off on their Mason journey? 

As I am reflecting on my time at Mason, one piece of advice that I would give a student who is just starting off on their Mason journey is to seek out as many new opportunities as possible. Joining a new club could bring you a new friend or experience, and pursuing a professional opportunity could open more doors for your future. 

What is your next step after graduation? What are your future plans?  

After graduation, I plan to work at a federal agency or environmental NGO on environmental or international relations issues. I eventually plan to go to graduate school for international environmental policy.