Nisha Shankar
Cross Cultural Exchange and Study Abroad Track
Started the program Fall '22; Expected to graduate Spring '24
Why did you choose the NYU International Education MA Program?
I applied to 3 different NYU master's programs related to international affairs, but I chose the IE program because it combined history, sociology, politics, and education, while allowing us to develop practical skills through site visits, guest speakers, and group projects. When I went to a virtual Open House event, the professors shared research opportunities and courses that I was extremely interested in, from international student support to arts education for refugees. The student ambassadors all seemed like they were part of a tight-knit community, which was something I was looking for, especially as a part-time student. I could see a path for myself at organizations like IIE, UNESCO, and Human Rights Watch, because so many of the international education alumni had gone on to work there as well.
What are some of the highlights from your academic career here at NYU?
Last year I got to be the treasurer of the International Education Student Board and help plan professional and social events for our cohort, which put me in close contact with fantastic alumni and academics who are friends of the program. This year, I will be an Ambassador for the IE program, interacting with incoming and prospective students and introducing them to everything NYU has to offer. I loved taking Contemporary Issues in International Education, because we got to talk about everything from oppression and power structures, to social movements and propaganda, to education in emergencies. I also got to do a project for Human Rights Watch, which gave me an invaluable connection to an organization I'd like to work for one day. In addition, because our cohort is pretty small, I'm able to learn about all of the jobs and internships my peers have, which has exposed me to all of the possibilities in the field of international education and has helped to to build my network of future colleagues!
Jennifer Huang
Cross Cultural Exchange and Study Abroad Track
Started the program Fall '22; Expected to graduate Fall '23
Why did you choose the NYU International Education MA Program?
By choosing the NYU International Education Master Program, I have been able to focus my academics on ensuring inclusive and quality education for all, promoting lifelong learning opportunities, and fostering education that leads to sustainable development.
This program offers a global perspective on education, which is crucial for addressing the disparities and challenges in education systems worldwide. Through the IE program, I aim to develop a deeper understanding of diverse educational contexts, reducing educational inequalities, and enhancing educational quality. Furthermore, the program's emphasis on international education will equip me with the necessary knowledge and skills to tackle global educational issues and collaborate with stakeholders from different cultural backgrounds to promote sustainable education practices.
By gaining expertise through the NYU International Education Master Program, I am preparing myself to become a proactive advocate for education that enhances individuals' opportunities and contributes to society's broader development and prosperity worldwide.
How has the "Cross Cultural Exchange and Study Abroad" Track complement your academic interests?
The "Cross-Cultural Exchange and Study Abroad" track aligns perfectly with my academic interests and career goals. This track provides a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of education, cultural diversity, and global engagement, all of which are integral to my passion for education and its transformative potential. Through this track, I have learned more about fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting study abroad experiences. I’ve also gained insights into various educational systems and practices from different parts of the world. This exposure will allow me to appreciate the richness of cultural diversity and understand how it shapes educational approaches and outcomes.
Rose Mikhail
Cross Cultural Exchange and Study Abroad Track
Started the program Fall '22; Expected to graduate Fall '23
Why did you choose the NYU International Education MA Program?
I chose the International Education MA program at NYU for various reasons. I was interested in NYU’s program specifically because of the faculty’s diverse backgrounds and experiences. They are top researchers and professionals in this field, and prior to enrolling they answered my questions thoroughly about potential research and career opportunities within the program. Additionally, there is no better place to study international education than New York City. It is amongst the most diverse cities in the world, and NYU is a short subway ride to 100s of international organizations, NGOs and non-state actors, educational institutions, and universities.
What are some of the highlights from your academic career here at NYU?
One of my primary interests in the I.E. field is education in the Middle East and North Africa region. My research interests include migrant and refugee studies and education in conflict areas within the MENA region. Furthermore, post-graduation, I strive to implement cross-cultural exchange programs between the United States and the MENA region. In my Contemporary Issues in International Education class with Professor Dana Burde, my group worked on a grant proposal for ReFOCUS Media Labs for refugees and asylum seekers, predominantly from the MENA region, to partake in a summer journalism course at NYU. Writing this proposal was a highlight of my academic career (so far) because I had the opportunity to work on a project I was passionate about during my first year of graduate school. Additionally, the NYU community is undoubtedly one of the strongest, making the transition to New York City much easier than I had anticipated.
Eduardo Reyna Oie
International Development Ed/Peace Conflict & Hum. Action Track
Started the program Fall '22; Expected to graduate Fall '23
What is the one of the most important things that you feel like you've learned so far in the international education program?
During our first semester we learned about how different theories that, to my understanding, were usually applied to politics, can be used to interpret education contexts/situations and to create sensible policies. Human capital theory, social reproduction theory, feminist theory (ies) and critical race theory are just a few of those that have enabled me to analyze current events through a lens that considers social hierarchies and other aspects that can affect the way policies are implemented and the extent to which they are actually beneficial to different groups of people. I’m sure some of the theorists we read about, such as Gramsci and Bourdieu will also inform me of my work after graduation.
In my second semester two of my classes focused on the way education and politics interact with each other. Which to me is particularly important in this context of worldwide polarization and culture wars. Even more so here in the U.S.
Javi Zamora Iturra
International Development Ed/Peace Conflict & Hum. Action Track
Started the program Spring '23; Expected to graduate Fall '23
Why did you choose the NYU International Education MA Program?
My decision to join NYU's program was driven by its exceptional reputation in the field of education. NYU's longstanding commitment to academic excellence and its global network of educators greatly appealed to me. I knew it was the perfect place to expand my knowledge and skills in this field beyond the classroom understanding the role of education in multiple contexts.
What are some of the highlights from your academic career here at NYU?
Regarding my academic journey at NYU, the standout moment was undoubtedly my internship in Ghana, where I collaborated with United Way on initiatives to reinsert children who had suffered trafficking. This experience was profoundly impactful, as it allowed me to witness firsthand how education can transform lives, especially in underserved communities. It was a valuable opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, deepening my understanding of international education and giving me a new passion to pursue professionally.
Victoria Ostroumoff
International Development Ed/Peace Conflict & Hum. Action Track
Started the program Fall '22; Expected to graduate Fall '23
Why did you choose the NYU International Education MA Program?
I had chosen the NYU International Education MA Program because I was always interested in internationalization and recently, education. I found an interest in comparing education systems around the world to better understand the United States’ education system pros and cons. I ultimately chose NYU for my masters because they have some of the most prolific researchers in International Education. My decision was not wrong, every professor I have had the pleasure of meeting has taught and shown me so much in the short amount of time I have been here.
How has the "International Development Ed/Peace Conflict & Humanitarian Action" Track complemented your academic interests?
The "International Development Ed/Peace Conflict & Humanitarian Action" Track complements my academic interests through having hands-on opportunities like human rights-based projects and grant writing projects. There is no better way to learn than to have first-hand experience. This track has helped me refine my academic interests in policy making, human rights work, and building a foundational understanding of educations role in peace and conflict.