BA in Global Affairs

Kira Lindenhall, 2025

Kira is deeply dedicated to environmental and sustainability efforts. She actively advocates for sustainable fashion and thrifting, follows a vegetarian diet, grows her own food in a home garden, and prioritizes public transportation to reduce her carbon footprint. She volunteers with various organizations, conducting microbiology research at the Mason Greenhouse; participating in Night to Shine, an event where volunteers take individuals with special needs to prom; and contributing to Feed Fairfax, an organization focused on food security. Additionally, she engages in climate action and cleanup efforts in San Jose and is involved with Mason’s Humanity First student organization.  

Kira pursued a study abroad semester at Universidad LCI Veritas in San José, Costa Rica, where she studied climate change, sustainable development, and international environmental policy. During her time there, she guided tours of the Osa Peninsula, Páramo cloud forest, coastal infrastructures, and local mangroves. She also completed an impressive internship at the U.S. Embassy in Vienna, Austria, working for the General Services Office. Her responsibilities included planning a July 4th event for Ambassador Kennedy and conducting an extensive research project on Austria’s energy profile, focusing on their progress toward carbon neutrality. 

What was the most impactful class you took in your major?  

One of the most impactful classes I took in my major was EVPP 480: Sustainability in Action with Professor Dann. A significant portion of the grade is volunteer work, and I love that our learning was conducted outside of the classroom and that it helped our community in the process. I spent most of this time volunteering in the greenhouse with Doni Nolan where I was able to gain valuable insight into growing hydroponics, composting, and how to live sustainably. I continue to go back every week, even after finishing my mandatory hours. This class allowed me to engage with my community and peers in so many ways; I am very grateful for the experience. 

Another impactful class was ENV3470: Climate Change & Impact Adaption with Professor Mauricio Mora Sanchez. This was a course I took during my study abroad in Costa Rica where we learned about the impact of climate change on Central America. It was enlightening to learn from a different perspective and immerse myself in the culture. We went on several amazing field trips such as visiting the Osa Peninsula, Páramo cloud forest, coastal infrastructures, and local mangroves. I will never forget this experience and I cannot wait to use the knowledge gained from this course in my future. 

What activities were you involved in during your time at George Mason that impacted you?  

One of the requirements to graduate with my major is an internship and looking back I am very grateful for this push. For my credit, I studied abroad in Vienna, Austria, and interned at the United States Embassy. I mostly worked in the General Services Office (GSO) with Ana Turner, who I am still in touch with to this day. I was able to help design welcome kits for incoming employees, assist in running the DEIA events, and help pull together a wildly successful 4th of July party for the Ambassador for years to come. I was very lucky to be able to experience two study abroad adventures and this international internship completely opened my eyes to work life abroad and expanded my horizons. 

What is your most memorable moment at George Mason inside or outside of the classroom?  

Some of my most memorable moments at George Mason were at the different cultural events. For example, the international cafe's (OIPS), Nouruz Gala (GMU Persian Club), and Garba (ISA). I loved being able to experience different cultural traditions with my peers and try all of the delicious foods. I am so glad that George Mason is home to a vast group of people from all over the world and that we can all come together to celebrate those differences. 

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

I would advise them to step out of their comfort zone and attend all the different George Mason events that they can. Whether that is the home basketball games, Mason Day, or the farmers market. So many of my best memories were at these events. You never know who you will meet; it is a great way to make friends. Students don't take advantage enough of the amazing opportunities and fun events at George Mason, plus there are usually free shirts! 

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

I hope to continue to travel the world and take the knowledge that George Mason has given me to each place I visit. I hope to be able to give back to my community and better the environment in the process.