Name: Tala Alahmar
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation) ‘23
Hometown: Damascus, Syria
Affiliations: Transfer Student Ambassador, optiMize transfer bridge fellow, MUNUM 36 staff member and a former UROP student
Future Plans: “I received the Jack Kent Cooke Graduate Scholarship and will be attending the Democracy & Governance M.A. program at Georgetown University”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “I studied abroad in Barcelona last semester. It was an absolutely amazing experience and allowed me to delve into my regional studies. It's for sure the highlight of my entire undergraduate experience!”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “I want to thank professor Michelle Bellino for helping me with my internship and grad school applications. I took a class with her my first semester and she has been so supportive since. She's written me three letters of recommendation. I also learned a lot from her during class and have appreciated all of our encounters.”
Name: Fatimah Alhawary
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Anthropology; minor, Museum Studies ‘23
Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI
Affiliations: On campus I served on Martha Cook House Board, I participated in the Michigan in Washington program, and I currently work at the Museum of Anthropological Archeology. Off campus I am involved in Civil Air Patrol.
Future Plans: “I will be pursuing a Masters degree in Transcultural Studies with a Certificate in Museum Studies”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “Learning about the world in my courses (:”
Name: Margaret Barber
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Global Environment and Health) and PitE with a Minor in Italian.
Hometown: Burlingame, California
Affiliations: Alpha Gamma Delta
Future Plans: After graduation, she will be going to Cambridge for a Masters in Philosophy (MPhil) in Environmental Policy.
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: My INTLSTD 401 seminar on addressing the global climate crisis. We had great discussions in that class!
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: Thank you for all of your support and inspiring conversations!
Name: Mekulash Baron-Galbavi
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation); minor, Urban Studies; minor, Food and Environmental Studies ‘23
Hometown: Monroe, MI
Affiliations: Model UN at the University of Michigan (MUNUM), Semester in Detroit
Future Plans: “I'm not sure exactly, but I will be pursuing opportunities domestically and abroad with a focus on human rights, transformative justice, and social justice.”
Fondest memory of his experience in PICS: “I really enjoyed my time running into other PICS students at events and classes such as classes for the major and events for the department and for the Donia Human Rights Center. I felt a strong sense of community in PICS”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “Thank you for all that you've taught me.”
Name: Sarah Bellovich
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Comparative Culture and Identity); minor, French and Francophone Studies; minor, Sweetland Writing ‘23
Hometown: Grosse Pointe, MI
Affiliations: Phi Delta Phi, Pre-Law Fraternity; Residential College
Future Plans: “I am studying at The Graduate Institute, Geneva (IHEID) where I will be completing a Masters in International and Developmental Studies in the field of Human Rights.”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “My fondest memory was going to INTLSTD 470 each week on Wednesday nights and sitting down with a group of students who were so passionate about a future in the international field. It was one classroom in which you truly felt people wanted to be in and be fully present in order to ask difficult questions and ponder complex answers.”
Name: Daniel Joseph Brzozowski
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Political Economy and Development), Minor Entrepreneurship
Hometown: Commerce Township, MI
Affiliations: Psi Upsilon Fraternity, MUSIC Matters
Future Plans: Client Service Associate at Fisher Investments in Tampa, FL
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: The diverse class choices led me down an unexpected route that allowed me to learn a broad amount of information from all around the world.
Name: Jackson Reed Cabral
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Political Science ‘23
Hometown: Scottsdale, AZ
Affiliations: Secretary of Sigma Iota Rho (International Studies Honor Society), Member of the Alexander Hamilton Society (Foreign Policy Club), Community Service Chair of Pi Kappa Alpha (Social Fraternity)
Future Plans: “After graduation, I will be moving to Washington D.C. to begin my full time position as a National Security and Defense Consultant at Capgemini Government Solutions (CGS). After about a year of work, my goal is to serve in the Peace Corps in Morocco followed by graduate school, meanwhile studying for the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT). My dream goal would be to eventually become a Foreign Service Officer in the Middle East and finish my career at the State Department.”
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: “The moment when I finished my last class of my sixth semester of Portuguese. It was the moment when I realized that all of my hard work had paid off and I was incredibly proud to be able to speak such a wonderful language fluently.”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “I want to express my gratitude to my family for their unwavering support over the years and to all of the outstanding PICS professors who have helped me learn more about the world.”
Name: Kathleen Mae Carroll
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation); minor, Moral and Political Philosophy
Hometown: Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
Affiliations: "I’ve worked as an Honors Resident Advisor in South Quad for the past two years; I've been affiliated with Wolverine Wellness for the past two years; and I've volunteered and worked for the Dawn Farm community of programs in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti."
Future Plans: “I'll be focusing on preparing for the LSAT and working at Dawn Farm, and I plan to attend law school in two or three years!"
Fondest memory of his experience in PICS: “It's not necessarily a memory in itself, but PICS wasn't even on my radar as a potential field of study when I got to Michigan –– I needed a fourth course to fill out my schedule first semester freshman year, and International Studies 101 with Professor Greta Uehling looked really interesting. I fell in love with the course, especially the units which covered human rights-specific issues and concepts, and I couldn't be more thankful that I took it.”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “It's been such a pleasure to take classes with and learn from so many different people on so many different topics. I've had a lot of fantastic professors and peers who have pushed me to think about the world differently. Also, thank you to my mom for not freaking out when I told her that engineering and economics were both off the table.”
Name: Emmanuel Orozco Castellanos
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation); minor, Critical Translation Studies; minor, Latin American and Caribbean Studies ‘23
Hometown: Capilla de Guadalupe, Jalisco, Mexico
Affiliations: Immigrant Justice Lab; Michigan Journal of International Affairs; Global Scholars Program
Future Plans: “I'm currently working part-time as a Program Assistant for the U-M Department of Comparative Literature, where I am contributing to a project that showcases multilingualism and translation in Michigan and beyond. In addition, I'm a translator for the Immigrant Justice Lab, at the Law School. I'm planning on pursuing a career in international human rights, working for a non-profit, a law firm, or at an international organization.”
Fondest memory of his experience in PICS: “I would definitely say that during my time abroad studying in Switzerland, which PICS helped me fund, my host mom threw a "goodbye" party and made paella. We danced to songs in all conceivable languages, and celebrated so many cultures and traditions. It was a moment of pure joy! It was also during my time abroad that I visited the UN Human Rights Council, whose stunning ceiling has stuck with me to this date.”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “Thanks to my professors and mentors who nourished my curiosity, to my friends in the Global Scholars Program who made U-M feel like home, and to my family for teaching me the value of pursuing an education, even when they were not able to pursue it themselves.”
Name: Edra Cela
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Comparative Culture and Identity), with Minors in Law, Justice and Social Change
Hometown: Pogradec,Albania
Affiliations: During the Winter of 2022, I was an active member of AIESEC UM on campus, where I honed my leadership and interpersonal skills. Continuing my pursuit of personal and academic growth, I participated in a study abroad program through CGIS, spending the Fall 2022 semester in the beautiful city of Barcelona. This enriching experience allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture, broaden my horizons, and gain a fresh perspective on the world around me.
Future Plans: Upon completing my studies, I am planning on taking a gap year during which I intend to dedicate to gaining valuable work experience. My ultimate goal is to enroll in Law School and specialize in either International Law or Human Rights Law. By engaging in relevant work during this period, I hope to not only enhance my skillset but also gain firsthand exposure to the legal field, thereby enabling me to make a meaningful impact in my chosen area of specialization.
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: One of the most memorable moments during my time at UofM was undoubtedly the electric atmosphere during the highly anticipated Umich vs Ohio state game in 2021. The energy was amazing as we cheered on our team and witnessed our hard-earned victory unfold before our very eyes. The sheer joy and excitement of the crowd running onto the field in celebration is a sight that will forever be in my mind.
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to all the wonderful friends and professors who have made a significant impact on my journey. Your support, guidance, and encouragement have been instrumental in my growth and development, and for that, I am forever grateful.
I extend my sincerest thanks to all those who have contributed to my life in ways big and small. I am humbled by the countless moments of kindness, inspiration, and guidance that have shaped me into the person I am today. But above all, my deepest gratitude goes to my family. Their selfless sacrifices, invaluable counsel, patience, and unshakeable faith in me have been the bedrock of my success. Their unconditional love and unwavering support have sustained me through the highs and lows of this educational journey, and for that, I will be forever grateful.
Name: Sharonda Chiangong
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Global Environment and Health); minor, Music ‘23
Hometown: Southfield, MI
Affiliations: Diversity Peer Educator for Mosher-Jordan Housing; Model Coordinator for African Students Association; OAMI's MLK Symposium Program Coordinator
Future Plans: “After graduation, I plan on continuing my education to study Infectious Disease Epidemiology.”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “My fondest memory is taking the many Public Health courses in the GEH sub-plan. These courses is what allowed me to continue my passion of Public Health and Epidemiology”
Name: Kylie Chicilli
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Political Science ‘23
Hometown: Clare, MI
Affiliations: Beta Alpha Rho Pre-Law and Public Service Fraternity, SUNNY, Food Gatherers, Intern for LGBTQ+ Non-Profit DROP in Sorrento, Italy
Future Plans: “Post-graduation, I am moving to Lansing to hopefully continue my work in activism and policy. I recently worked for the Office of State Representative Yousef Rabhi, and I hope to continue with another office in our Capitol either in another elected official's office, working on a campaign, or with a local advocacy non-profit!”
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: “PICS allowed me to be able to study abroad in Sorrento, Italy which has been the trip of a lifetime. I also took two IS-401 courses this past year with Professor Greta Uehling and I am so grateful for the opportunity to learn from her and share political conversations. Our classes were small and intimate and I feel like I expanded my knowledge in international politics so much with her guidance.”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “Choosing an IS major was one of the best choices of my college career. The major is so flexible and has such a wide variety of classes that everyone can find something they are interested in. My PICS classes have been my most memorable and most interesting, and I feel that a PICS major balanced with a Political Science major is not only doable, but really enriching and well-rounded.”
Name: Jacqueline Choe
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation), Minor in Asian Languages and Culture (Korean)
Hometown: Saint Joseph, Michigan
Affiliations: Nam Center for Korean Studies
Future Plans: UM Ross One Year Masters of Management Program
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: My INTLSTD 401 course-- the professor really opened my eyes to amazing literature and thought processes, while creating a safe and open space for students to learn from and converse with each other.
Name: John Conlin
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Political Science ‘23
Hometown: Chelsea, MI
Affiliations: The Michigan Daily, Argus Farm Stop
Future Plans: “Graduate school tbd”
Fondest memory of his experience in PICS: “IS 301 with Stonington”
Name: Alessandra Curry
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation) ‘23
Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI
Affiliations: Students of Color interested in Law, Government, Policy, and Social Justice; Alexander Hamilton Society; Black Student Union; Sigma Iota Rho Honor Society; Global Scholars Program; and Turner African American Services Council
Future Plans: “After graduation I plan to either apply for graduate schools and law schools in the upcoming cycle, or full time employment in Washington DC. Until then I plan to continue being involved in my community and visiting my friends at schools across the country.”
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: “The community that is built in the department between both the students and the faculty. They are always willing to provide a helping hand and problem solve issues that may arise.”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “I would like to personally thank my parents, Emmanuel Curry and Petula Brown, for always providing an anchor for me and a place to escape amongst the challenges I faced during my time here. And also being there to celebrate the successes I also experienced.”
Name: Carley Davidson
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation); BA Political Science ‘23
Hometown: Ypsilanti, MI
Affiliations: Executive Board of Students 4 Decarceration
Future Plans: “getting an MSW at UM SSW”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “The courses offered”
Name: Alberto Della Torre
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Global Environment and Health); BA Environment ‘23
Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI
Affiliations: Michigan Journal of International Affairs, Urbanism Club
Future Plans: “I will be joining the Peace Corps in Mexico”
Fondest memory of his experience in PICS: “Meeting new friends in all of my classes.”
Name: Jack Gisondi
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); minor, Business Administration ‘23
Hometown: Larchmont, NY
Affiliations: Japanese Language Circle (Communications Chair), Tadoku Room Intern in the Asia Library
Future Plans: “I am planning to work in Japan and develop stronger relations between the U.S and Japan through either a business or government position. I am already set to start moving towards this goal by teaching English in Japan through the JET Program this summer and beyond.”
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: “Undoubtedly my classes with Professor Zeglen on Nationalism and Doctor Mandair on Religion and Violence. They really showed me a new way to look at the world, and have motivated me to continue reading about these topics.”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “I want to thank my sister and parents for always being there for me when things got tough, and for supporting me in all my endeavors. To my teachers and professors in PICS and the Japanese Language Program: thank you for nurturing my curiosity and making my educational journey so meaningful. Your passion was always evident in your teaching, and it really inspired me to continue learning and growing into the future!”
Name: Sara Victoria Gleason
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Spanish; minor, Portuguese ‘23
Hometown: Portage, MI
Affiliations: Sigma Iota Rho, Global Scholar Program (served as Vice President for fall 2022 before winter study abroad), and UROP
Future Plans: “I will be completing a Fulbright Fellowship for the year of 2024, where I will support Brazilian university students to excel in the English language. After, I aim to utilize my language skills in the Foreign Service.”
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: “Meeting my best friends in this program and being able to make great connections with my mentors.”
Name: Abigail Gonzalez
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Global Environment and Health)
Hometown: Pullman, MI
Affiliations: Latinx Undergraduate Medical Association (LUMA), Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc., La Casa
Future Plans: Attending grad school for a masters in health informatics
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: The little expo they had in fall 21 where we were able to get to know other international studies majors.
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: Thank you to my parents for always supporting me and giving me the tools necessary to survive these past 4 years.
Name: Stanislaw Gunkel
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Global Environment and Health) and German, Minor in Environment
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Affiliations: US Fish & Wildlife Service & Student Conservation Association, Bachpaten Freiburg, the Executive Board of the Polish Student Association, released the debut EP for one of my musical projects, Doorstop
Future Plans: I will be returning to my hometown of Chicago to seek employment working in conservation, ecology and environment. Alongside my career path, I will continue working as a musician writing, performing and producing indie/alternative music.
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: The most meaningful aspect of my studies was the chance to study abroad in Germany in the Academic Year Freiburg program which was a personally rewarding experience that paid dividends in my coursework.
Name: Nina Jo Hashbarger
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation) ‘23
Hometown: Lincoln Park, MI
Affiliations: Comprehensive Studies Program, Residential Advisor and student leader for the Global Scholars Program
Future Plans: “Going abroad to Japan and South Korea in the summer after graduation.”
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: “Meeting so many friends!”
Name: Grace Winifred Hennigan
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Global Environment and Health) and (Honors) Asian Studies (Chinese Language & Culture); minor, Critical Translation Studies; minor, Latin American and Caribbean Studies ‘23
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Affiliations: Immigrant Justice Lab; Michigan Journal of International Affairs; Global Scholars Program
Future Plans: Working in New York at Syneos Health in their Graduate Training Program!
Name: Yaozhong (Evan) Hu
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation); BA Political Science ‘23
Hometown: Shanghai, China
Affiliations: Michigan Venture Club; XInitiative Club; Chinese Humanities Reading Club; Sigma Lota Rho
Future Plans: “I have already received a law school offer and will be heading to law school after graduation and will become a lawyer in the future.”
Name: Lillith Jackson (They/Them Pronouns)
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Comparative Culture and Identity), BA Asian Studies
Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
Future Plans: Masters for Japanese Literature
Name: Ryan Keiper
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation); BA History ‘23
Hometown: South San Francisco, CA
Affiliations: Information Assistant at CIC; Michigan Hockey League; Diplomacy Lab (research); Scandinavian Club
Future Plans: “I will be working as an Advanced Analytics Consultant at FTI Consulting in San Francisco this fall. I also plan to coach at my old youth hockey club in San Francisco.”
Fondest memory of his experience in PICS: “Studying abroad in Barcelona last summer”
Name: Noor Khan
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); and Middle East Studies
Hometown: Hallsville, Tx
Affiliations: Michigan Mock Trial, Civil Rights Litigation Clearinghouse, UNICEF-UM, Immigration Justice Lab
Future Plans: “I have accepted a position working as a Legal Practice Assistant in International Trade & Securities Litigation at Morgan, Lewis, & Bokius at their Seattle office!"
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “The welcome week activities the PICS department hosts every year! .”
Name: Jennifer Kim
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); minor, Environment ‘23
Hometown: Manila, Philippines; Beijing, China; Shanghai, China
Affiliations: Michigan Journal of Asian Studies, Taekwondo, Sigma Iota Rho
Future Plans: “Work.”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “Taking Dr. Marcum's class on justice and accountability! It was the most interesting class I've taken in college.”
Name: Emily Anne Kopp
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA History; minor, Islamic Studies ‘23
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Affiliations: Michigan Mock Trial, Michigan Political Consulting, Michigan Foreign Policy Council
Future Plans: “After graduation, I will be working in New York City as a litigation paralegal with Sullivan & Cromwell.”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “As a PICS student, I have been able to delve into a diverse range of politically relevant topics through captivating courses. The opportunity to team up with my peers on exciting projects and research, while learning from knowledgeable professors, has undoubtedly been a highlight of my college experience.”
Name: Lillian Diane Clarissa Malone
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Comparative Culture and Identity)
Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI
Affiliations: PALMA, working part time, ESL tutoring
Future Plans: I am moving to Spain to be a language assistant
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: Class discussions in Dr. M’s 401 seminar.
Name: Sean Maxwell McNally-Hodgson
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Political Science ‘23
Hometown: Ypsilanti, MI
Affiliations: Student Advocacy Center of Michigan, University of Michigan Taekwondo
Future Plans: “I will be attending UMich in the fall to pursue an Accelerated Masters in Transcultural Studies, with a particular focus on History.”
Fondest memory of his experience in PICS: “When our GSI Alhan brought cookies and treats for everyone at the end of the Fall 2021 semester.”
Name: Lauren Peng
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Public Policy; minor, Chinese Language and Culture ‘23
Hometown: Morristown, NJ; Shanghai, China
Affiliations: UofM Club Fencing; Students of Color in Public Policy
Future Plans: “My passion for U.S.-China relations and diplomacy motivates me to pursue a career that involves addressing crucial challenges between these two nations, as well as promoting global diplomatic relations. Additionally, after graduation, I hope to pursue my personal aspirations, which include attaining a stable work-life balance, improving my health, and strengthening my bonds with loved ones.”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “Thanks to PICS courses, I was exposed to novel topics and concepts that I would not have explored in-depth on my own, for which I am grateful. I fondly remember the thought-provoking discussions that expanded my worldview.”
Name: Natalia Pfeffer
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Political Economy and Development), Minor in the Ross School of Business
Hometown: Shelby Township, MI
Affiliations: MCSP, Flint Justice Partnership, Work for UofM Recreational Sports
Future Plans: Will be working at Copper Hill Inc. as a Trade Representative in Customs Compliance
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: I loved many of the courses that I took for the International Studies major (PED track), but I especially enjoyed the seminars and my International Studies 101 discussion section. I recall that my INTLSTD 101 discussion section GSI shared many of his experiences working to help refugees, which were captivating stories. All of my INTLSTD course professors have so much expertise and have had fascinating experiences in their field.
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: I would like to thank my parents, professors, and academic advisors for all of their support and encouragement.
Name: Kaitlyn Potter
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Political Economy and Development); BA Spanish,‘23
Hometown: Troy, MI
Affiliations: Zeta Omega Eta, American Friends Service Committee, Ask a Librarian at Hatcher, Sanger Leadership Legacy Lab, Readers and Best, and Spanish Club.
Future Plans: Following graduation, I will be working in Medellín, Colombia for the summer as a language and translation intern. In the fall, I will be returning to the Ann Arbor campus as a Master's candidate in Transcultural Studies, and I have my eyes on a Fulbright Program following my master's graduation.
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: My fondest memory of PICS is getting to study abroad in Madrid, Spain!
Name: Isabella Preissle
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Political Science ‘23
Hometown: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Affiliations: The Michigan Running Club, Delta Gamma Phi Pre-Law Sorority, Student assistant for PICS, on-campus fellow with the Donia Human Rights Center.
Future Plans: I am planning on taking a two year gap year to work before attending law school!
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: Writing a thesis with the most incredible cohort of PICS students. It was really incredible to see all the different projects that students pursued and share our passions.
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?:
Thank you for everything! Go Blue!
Name: Ketan Revankar
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Global Environment and Health)
Hometown: West Bloomfield, Michigan
Affiliations: Health Policy Student Association, Wolverine Support Network
Future Plans: I will be attending Columbia University for a dual MPH/MSW!
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: I remember my time in INTLSTD 401, about the Cosmopolitan History of Food, and just really enjoying trying out foods from everyone's culture!
Name: Naomi Rosen
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation); BA History ‘23
Hometown: Mountain View, CA
Affiliations: Kappa Omega Alpha (pre-law and public policy group); Tutoring, LSA Honors; Michigan Yoga Club
Future Plans: “Working as an associate consultant at Quadrant Strategies in Washington DC”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “Receiving PICS funding to travel to Munich to do research for my senior thesis about the murder of the Israeli athletes at the 1972 Munich Olympics.”
Name: Zoe Roskin
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Political Economy and Development), with Minors in Performing Arts Management & Entrepreneurship
Hometown: Katonah, New York
Affiliations: Talent & Concert Chair for MUSIC Matters and served as the First Year Students of Hillel Co-Chair. This year, I booked our headliner, ROLE MODEL, for MUSIC Matters' SpringFest concert at the Michigan Theater! In my free time, I love to run, play tennis, and read.
Future Plans: I will be working in the International Marketing department at Def Jam Recordings in NYC.
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: Studying abroad in Barcelona with a host family and getting to apply my Spanish skills!
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: I am so grateful to my parents and professors for their undying support, kindness, and mentorship these past 4 years! I couldn't have done it without you!
Name: Suela Sefa
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation), Minor in Crime and Justice, Social Class and Inequality Studies
Hometown: West Bloomfield, Michigan
Affiliations: Albanian American Student Organization, Sigma Iota Rho Honors
Society, and Triota Honors Society
Future Plans: Eventually after graduation I would like to work as a foreign service officer!
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: My fondest memory of my experience in PICS is joining SIR and making such great friends with other people in my major.
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: I want to thank my parents and the rest of my family for always supporting my education. I also want to thank my amazing roommates and friends for always sticking by my side!
Name: Edha Shirodkar
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Economics ‘23
Hometown: Farmington Hills, MI
Affiliations: Michigan Journal of Asian Studies, M-Etrics, SWIE, The Michigan Gayly: LGBTQ+ Issues, The Archive
Future Plans: Hoping to pursue a career in research, policy, or data analysis! I also want to go to graduate school eventually.
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: Interesting group projects in classes
Name: Jacob Small
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Political Economy and Development); minor in Energy Science and Policy
Hometown: Buffalo, New York
Affiliations: Founder and President of the Michigan Hockey League, VP of Strategy at the Michigan Business Group, Ski Club
Future Plans: Working in sustainable business development, urban planning, or financial research.
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: Studying abroad in Barcelona!
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “To the PICS faculty, thank you for making me a better writer. Writing is the biggest skill I've taken away from this department, whether it's a 20-page high-level research paper on the Middle East or a 500-word reflection on a reading from the 19th century. The PICS department has not only allowed me to understand challenges across the world but has allowed me to cultivate my opinions and findings from research through writing practice that will last me a career. Thank you.
To my family, thanks! You're my biggest fans. Shoutout to the dogs - Stanley and Vinny - and Go Bills!
To my Michigan friends and the Class of 2023 - we did it! Thanks for being there for me every step of the way. College is so fun.
To the University of Michigan as a whole, thanks for allowing me to be a part of this community. It's been a privilege to be a part of the Wolverine family, and the aura of this place has never failed to amaze me. I look forward to wearing a Michigan hat in every airport I travel to for the rest of my life."
Name: Courtney Smith
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA German ‘23
Hometown: Ann Arbor, MI
Affiliations: English Language Circle Leader
Future Plans: “I'll be an English Teaching Assistant through Fulbright Austria”
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: “Studying abroad in Freiburg to help complete my PICS major.”
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: “Thank you for all your support and patience! You're helping to make the world a more peaceful and understanding place.”
Name: Leah Smith
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation); BA Spanish ‘23
Hometown: Portage, MI
Affiliations: Member of Michigan Movement
Future Plans: “Down the road, I hope to end up writing for video games or books or anything else fun & creative!”
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: “All of the cool classes and amazing professors that I would've missed if not for the ISNC, and of course studying in Spain!”
Name: Rose Sproat
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms, and Cooperation) and Statistics with a Minor in Asian Languages and Culture.
Hometown: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Affiliations: Michigan Pops Orchestra publicity Director and was a Global Scholars Program holiday & tradition coordinator
Future Plans: After graduation, I’m going to spend a month in Barcelona with friends and then move to New York City to work at Jane Street!
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: I’ve enjoyed getting to know my PICS classmates through being in GSP and Sigma Iota Rho, the International Studies honors society!
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: Thank you to the PICS professors for your kindness and wisdom and my family and friends for your support and honesty!
Name: Carolina Mota Teixeira
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Political Economy and Development), Double minor in Economics (LSA) and Business (Ross)
Hometown: São Paulo, Brazil
Affiliations: Michigan International Students Society (MISS), Brazilian Students Association (BSA), Michigan Advertising and Marketing (MAM)
Future Plans: I'll be joining Ernst & Young (EY) as a full-time Transaction Real Estate Associate in their Chicago office.
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: Having the opportunity to study abroad in Barcelona during the winter semester of my junior year. It was an unforgettable experience!
Name: Elizabeth Tower
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Comparative Culture and Identity); minor, Religion ‘23
Hometown: Jenison, MI
Affiliations: The Muslim Coalition, Interfaith Advisory Board, SAFE Umich
Future Plans: “After graduation, I will be attending the University of Oxford for a MSc in Modern Middle Eastern Studies.”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “Writing my senior honors thesis with a great cohort of other PICS seniors!”
Name: Grace Tucker
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Comparative Culture and Identity); BA Spanish; minor, Crime and Justice ‘23
Hometown: Zionsville, IN
Affiliations: Gimble Acappella, The Michigan Daily, UROP, Michminnies Cooperative House, Proyecto Avance Latino-Mentoring Association (PALMA)
Future Plans: “Journalism, incoming Reporting intern at the Columbus Dispatch”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “Getting to learn about the nuances of geopolitical phenomenons from my amazing professors.”
Name: Heidi Tuyen
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Political Economy and Development); minor, Chinese Language and Culture ‘23
Hometown: New York, NY
Affiliations: SIRS, HKSA, Women in Law, The Accounting Club, Flowdom
Future Plans: “I will be getting a Masters in Accounting at NYU”
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: “I enjoy networking and getting to know the supportive staff and professors.”
Name: Grey Weinstein
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Comparative Culture and Identity); BA Political Science; minor, LGBTQ+ Studies ‘23
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Affiliations: J Street UMich, The Michigan Gayly, the Michigan Community Scholars Program, student employee at the Spectrum Center
Future Plans: “I will be living in Ypsilanti with my friends and my cat, hopefully employed in a job that uses my degree.”
Fondest memory of his experience in PICS: “Taking engaging classes :)”
Name: Mia Whitfield
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation); BA Political Science ‘23
Hometown: Clarkston, MI
Affiliations: “I am a Resident Advisor at North Quad. I currently intern at both an international law firm with primarily corporate practices and a boutique firm devoted to infrastructure, transportation, environmental, land-use, and Native American law practices. I am a member of a Faculty Engineering/Arts Students Team (FEAST) through the College of Engineering, working with a multidisciplinary group of students to research and build an agricultural robot. I also do faculty-guided independent research on human rights through the political science department.”
Future Plans: “I will be joining an investment management firm as a private alternatives business development analyst.”
Fondest memory of her experience in PICS: “PICS allowed me to take a wide variety of classes across departments. I really appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of the program and the fact that I was able to explore so many of my different interests.”
Name: Maddie Wilten
Majors/Minors: BA International Studies (Global Environment and Health) and a Minor in Spanish
Hometown: Denver, Colorado
Affiliations: the Michigan Community Scholars Program, and AIESEC/ current internship at Equity Quotient
Future Plans: After graduation, she will be traveling to the west coast of the US for a month and then will be working at a hostel in Portugal for the summer. After her travels, she plans to start full-time as an Associate Growth Strategist at Equity Quotient, a SaaS-based startup company that analyzes the S in ESG so companies can manage risk, drive social impact, increase growth, and contribute to a more equitable economy. She will most likely be in New York starting in September.
Fondest memory of his/her experience in PICS: I have loved the classes I've taken that have taught me about the importance of an international perspective and have particularly loved my study abroad experience in Madrid, Spain.
Is there anything you would like to express to your peers, parents, professors, or others?: I'm incredibly grateful for my peers, professors, and parents for supporting me as I navigated college and finding a career path. I appreciate the skills I have gained, the friends I've made, and the incredible opportunities that I have been given. I have learned a lot and feel prepared for life after college. Thank you and Go Blue!
