Dena graduated from the MA International Relations Program in 2017. She is from Tehran, Iran and completed her Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.
Where do you currently work and what do you do there?
I am a Ph.D. candidate in the Political Science department at the City University of New York.
How did the IR Program prepare you for what you're doing now?
The IR program was without exaggeration one of the best things that happened to me and changed my life for the positive. The IR department provided a friendly and supportive environment, accomplished professors and resourceful staff and faculty who helped me build a strong academic profile and pursue my path towards a Ph.D.
Why did you choose the IR program at NYU?
The IR program is interdisciplinary with accomplished professors from academia, government, and industry. The IR program is very inclusive and creates a diverse community of students from all over the world. It is also located in NYC and is accessible to the most important organizations in the field, such as the United Nations.
Which was the class you most enjoyed? And the one in which you learned the most?
Almost all of my classes were amazing learning experiences, but I can name two: Natural Resource conflicts and The Nation-State and Globalization.
What advice would you give to future students of the program?
I advise students to reach out to their advisors, faculty, staff, and alumni with their academic questions and career concerns.
What was your favorite place on campus? What did you like best about student life at NYU?
I loved the IR Program office as well as the Bobst Library 10th floor. I literally feel like the IR office is my second home, and I am always welcomed there. The International Relations and Politics Association (IRPA) was an amazing resource for students in community-building within the IR world. They organized various events, lectures, programs, workshops, and happy hour gatherings.
What was the best thing about living in NYC?
The IR program at NYU! Honestly, it played an important role in making NYC less scary and more tolerable for me.
Last updated March 9th, 2019