Bea Ciordia graduated from the MA International Relations Program in 2020 and is from Pamplona, Spain. She majored in International Journalism in her undergraduate studies at University of Navarra, Spain before coming to NYU.
Why did you choose the IR program at NYU?
What I liked the most about the IR program at NYU was both its interdisciplinarity and its flexibility. I have always been very interested in global politics, migration and human rights advocacy, so I saw the IR program as the perfect way to delve deeper into all these fields, while also studying the most relevant theories of international relations.
Which has been the class you most enjoyed? And the one in which you learned the most?
This semester I am taking a class called Immigration and Transnationalism, and so far it is my favorite one. But I think International Relations: Concepts and Theories, taught by Professor Rama, was the class in which I learned the most. Having done my bachelor’s in International Journalism, I felt that my political expertise was limited compared to that of other students who had previous experience working in government, so I took the class very seriously and forced myself to get the most out of the lectures.
What advice would you give to future students of the program?
Take advantage of all the things the university has to offer! Classes are great, and professors are always happy to answer your questions and give you feedback on your work. Plus, there are hundreds of seminars, events, and workshops where you can meet leading experts in your field of interest.
What is your favorite place on campus? What do you like best about student life at NYU?
I have a thing for Washington Square Park: no matter how many hours I spend sitting on a bench or lying on the grass, my mood improves. Also, the views of the park from the upper floors of Bobst Library and Kimmel Center are incredible, and they definitely make the study much more enjoyable. Special mention must also be made to the food truck that sells ¢75 coffee in front of the library!
What is the best thing about living in NYC?
It may sound cliché, but everything about NYC is amazing. Some of my friends feel guilty when they stay home for too long! Every day there is something new you can do in the city, and the best thing is that many of these activities are free with your NYU ID!
What are your plans after you graduate? How has this program prepared you for that?
I have always had a special interest in migration and refugees, so after NYU I would love to get involved with the International Organization for Migration or with other NGOs working closely with the UN on these issues. Yet I do not rule out working as a foreign correspondent for Spanish media, reporting on humanitarian crises and human rights violations.
Last Updated February 19, 2019