MA in Global Affairs

Lorena Coffelt, 2025

My time at George Mason strengthened my research and writing skills and allowed me to connect my international background and professional experience to real-world challenges in public policy and international development.

What was your specific area of study and how did you choose it?

My specific area of study was Global Governance and Public Management. I chose this concentration because my international background and nonprofit experience made me interested in how governments, organizations, and public policies actually work in real life.

If you completed a dissertation, thesis, or capstone, please tell us about it.  

I completed my Capstone Research Seminar with Professor Paul Smith. My project focused on Charagua Iyambae in Bolivia and how its Indigenous government makes decisions about land use and conservation. I looked at how Guaraní community assemblies and elected leaders work together, and how outside actors, like government agencies, NGOs, agribusiness, and oil and gas projects, can shape what the autonomy can actually do in practice.

How did your academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences impact you?

My academic experience in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences helped me become a stronger writer, researcher, and critical thinker. Through writing-intensive courses with Professor Billy Howell and hands-on research, I learned how to break down complex issues, build clear arguments, and connect academic ideas to real-world policy and social challenges and so, these skills have shaped how I approach my work and how I think about problem-solving beyond the classroom.

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your George Mason career?

Yes, several professors played an important role during my time at George Mason, including Professor Ukata, Andrea Zach, Professor Byunghwan Son, Professor Paul Smith, and Professor West. Their classes challenged me to think more deeply and directly supported my academic development and career ambitions.

Why did you choose George Mason for your graduate studies? 

I chose George Mason because of its strong focus on global affairs, public policy, and real-world experience. The program’s flexibility and diverse student body made it a great fit for my background and long-term career goals.

Which accomplishments during your time at George Mason are you most proud of?

One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is completing both my undergraduate and graduate studies in Global Affairs while navigating an international academic path. Returning to school, meeting program requirements, and completing my capstone research strengthened my confidence and showed me how much I could accomplish with persistence and commitment.

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students? 

My advice to incoming graduate students is to stay organized, ask questions, and not be afraid to challenge yourself. Take advantage of campus resources like the Career Center to build or update your resume and explore internship or full-time job opportunities, and the Writing Center for extra support on papers. Please use your professors as a resource, manage your time well, and remember that growth often comes from feeling uncomfortable at first and most importantly, trust yourself and the process you are more capable than you think.

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

After graduation, I plan to continue working in the nonprofit sector, building on my experience in public policy and international development. In the long term, my goal is to work in roles that focus on global governance and policy implementation, where I can help support more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable solutions to real-world challenges.