Mahak graduated from the MA International Relations Program in 2018. She is from Mumbai, India and studied Politics and Journalism for her undergraduate degree.
Where do you currently work and what do you do there?
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. I’m a Social Media Editor on the Global Communications Team.
How did the IR Program prepare you for what you're doing now?
I knew I wanted to work in communications in International Relations — my thesis on Rohingya refugees helped me gain the knowledge I needed for my job, and the program encouraged me to take internships at the UN and private foundations that helped me gain the experience I needed to land my job.
Why did you choose the IR program at NYU?
It was a small program with specialized classes, mostly taught by experts who had great experience working in different areas of International Relations. It was what I was looking for.
Which was the class you most enjoyed? And the one in which you learned the most?
It’s hard to choose between Speechwriting in Diplomacy and my Master’s Thesis Seminar. I thoroughly enjoyed both classes because I could focus on my writing skills completely while enjoying healthy discussion with a group of peers who came from diverse backgrounds. Both classes also encouraged valuable peer reviews that helped me grow as a writer.
What advice would you give to future students of the program?
Talk to your professors during their office hours if you have even the smallest doubt. They are there to help and guide, and they’re amazing at it.
What was your favorite place on campus? What did you like best about student life at NYU?
My favorite place on campus was the Leslie ELab — lovely study spaces and free coffee! I loved being in the West Village, close to so many different food places.
What was the best thing about living in NYC?
Access to so many different opportunities and activities. I got to intern at the United Nations, see Broadway shows, explore, meet interesting people from all over the world, and eat food from all over the world!
Last Updated: March 6th, 2019