Student Stories

APSIA:»»Student Stories

Students at APSIA member schools contribute to global peace, prosperity, and understanding even during the course of their programs.

They believe the world can be a better place – and they are prepared to do the hard work needed to actively bring about that brighter future.

APSIA students are ready to solve the world’s problems. They are flexible enough to navigate the world as it is now and in the future.

Learn about some of our students and their work to transform the world:

The SAIS Community Lasts a Lifetime

Student

I knew at SAIS I would be joining a program that offered more than just academic rigor — I would be joining a diverse student community with unparalleled resources and stellar faculty.

Making the Most of Learning; both Inside and Out of the Classroom

Student

Through spirited debates, I learned so much about the recent democratic crisis in the U.S. and shared my knowledge on the challenges in India. It hit me in that class — SAIS is such an extraordinarily

SAIS: An Extraordinary Experience

Student

Through spirited debates, I learned so much about the recent democratic crisis in the U.S. and shared my knowledge on the challenges in India. It hit me in that class — SAIS is such an extraordinarily

Meet Birgit Lia Fain – Economic Affairs Officer at the United Nations and MSc in Economics alum

Student

The area of international development is exciting to work in – and needs well qualified people with innovative ideas who want to make a difference!

A fresh perspective on COP27

Student

International climate change conference leaves student attendees energized, encouraged about progress on tackling global issues

Student Spotlight: Christopher Weech

Student

Christopher Weech, class of 2023 Master of International Affairs candidate, discusses his experience at the Bush School. Chris’s main focus is International Economics and Trade Policy.

Student Spotlight: Dahlia Taha

Student

Dahlia Taha (class of 2023), Master of Public Service and Administration candidate, discusses her experience at the Bush School.

Student Spotlight: Robyn Battles

Student

Learn more about why Robyn Battles, Master of International Affairs candidate, discusses her experience at the Bush School. Robyn is in the National Security and Diplomacy track.

Student Spotlight: Michelle Estes

Student

Michelle Estes is a class of 2024 Master of International Affairs candidate with a concentration in National Security & Diplomacy in the European theater. She is also a a former veteran who served 24

How SIS Graduate Student and Naval Officer Eric Lies Plans to Serve, Post-Military and Post-Graduation

Student

We spoke with Eric Lies, a lieutenant in the US Navy and SIS student, about his military service and the unique benefits that the MIS program brings to those pursuing a career in international service

From homelessness to Stanford Law – first generation student joins law school pipeline program

Student

Luis Moros is one of only 20 students accepted from around the nation for the inaugural class of the Stanford Law Scholars Institute

Meet the UC San Diego Delegates Headed to Egypt for UN Climate Conference

Student

Students and faculty from Scripps Institution of Oceanography and School of Global Policy and Strategy prepare to attend COP27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt

From Planes to Pens

Student

The school was highly recommended by several of my foreign military colleagues, and the course offerings, the top-notch faculty, and its location in DC encouraged me to study at Johns Hopkins SAIS.

Using a Non-Western Lens to Redefine Global Conflict

Student

Every day when I walk past embassies and prominent think tanks, I feel the importance of what I am studying and the power of where I am.

Navigating the Complications of Sustainable Development

Student

SAIS allowed me to choose my own functional and regional focus areas so that I could tailor my education to my interests and career aspirations.

Fellowships provide financial security in pursuing an advanced degree

Student

Three students share the incredible impact of the school’s Robertson, Sylff and Dean’s Fellowships

A summer in Spain

Student

As part of its robust programs to elevate careers to the next level, GPS Career Services connects students with unique internship opportunities abroad

Bush School Auditing Interns Receive Distinguished Award

Student

This past summer, Master of Public Service and Administration (MPSA) candidates Jake Bronson ‘23 and Carling Repass ’23 contributed to an audit report that earned an internationally-recognized award.

LINA HERRERA

Student

I am a proud and outgoing Colombian who loves meeting new people and exploring new cultures. I also love to read and all things food—both cooking and eating! Sustainability is what I am truly passiona

GIANCARLO FALGUERA SILVA

Student

I am a third culture kid, growing up in the US to parents who immigrated there from the Philippines before I was born. I have a naturally competitive spirit and have competed in different sports for a

Addressing Gender-Based Violence

Student

We spoke with Elli Wachtman, SIS/MA ’22, about how the Sikhona Research Centre came to be, the center’s work, and why she is pursuing both a master’s degree and Social Innovation for Global Impact gra

A Unique Doctoral Program

Student

The DIA program also further helped Jeenho build his expertise by allowing him to delve into issues and focus on research for two years, with support from the top experts in the field.

Empowering Women Globally

Student

Through her studies, she has been able to incorporate a gender lens in conflict analysis and in class discussions, which has enabled her to utilize the skills she has gained from her past experiences.

From a BA to an MA at Johns Hopkins

Student

After graduating from SAIS, Austin hopes to use his degree to combine his interest in public policy with his background in migration, Latin America, development, and economics…

Gaining Expertise in US-China Relations in a Close-Knit Community

Student

My favorite part about studying at The HNC was the community, which made learning so much more rewarding.