Student stories

We are so exited to announce the inaugural cohort of FASS Dean’s Undergraduate Fellows, which includes our own International Studies student Yassmeen El-Hariri.

Meet Enter Laila Shaheen, a first-year student in the Master of Arts in International Studies program. With guidance from her professors, Laila transformed her innovative idea into a unique venture aimed at empowering educators.

Meet Maiya Jehman Morancie, a second-year student at SFU majoring in International Studies with a concentration in International Security and Conflict and minoring in Communications.

Summer Chan is a recipient of the 2024 Simons Foundation International Travel Grant. She travelled to France for academic exchange, and now she's back to dive into an account of her experience abroad.

Mariah crossed the stage this year, proudly receiving her International Studies degree with a concentration in Comparative World Politics, Culture, and Society, alongside a minor in Political Science. As a Malaysian-Filipino, her unique background fostered a deep interest in global issues, driving her passion for pursuing International Studies.

Nooria Sarhadi, a recent SFU graduate with a double major in International Studies and Political Science, was drawn to the International Studies program through her passion for global issues, cultural diversity, and international relations. Inspired by exceptional professors, Nooria's academic journey was enriched by their mentorship and support. Her story highlights the diverse and supportive environment at SFU's School for International Studies in preparing for her next big steps.

Avery Ebenal’s journey at SFU is a testament to the transformative power of interdisciplinary education. Combining his passions for human rights, climate change, history, and diverse cultures, Avery pursued a double major in International Studies and in Dance. His academic path was enriched by diverse perspectives, thought-provoking courses, and engaging professors who sharpened his critical thinking and analysis skills. Avery’s unique blend of interests and experiences at SFU prepared him to tackle global challenges with a well-rounded perspective.

A big congratulations to all of our International Studies graduates who crossed the stage this month. We've selected a few heartfelt reflections from graduates to share their favorite moments from their school journey with you.

At International Studies, Miri Abel found an ideal environment to explore her curiosity in culture, history and language, which allowed her to challenge Western-centric views and integrate Indigenous viewpoints into her studies. Now, as she prepares to pursue her master's at SFU, Miri hopes to foster dialogue between the International Studies and Indigenous Studies disciplines.

Students from Team Research Raccoons and Team Her Majesty's Smurfs receive their awards.

In January 2023, Carissa Gelinas embarked on an extraordinary adventure supported by the International Studies Travel Grant to explore Bangkok, Thailand.

For Yussuf Osman, turning his passion for activism and his deep-rooted connection to his homeland into the focus of his Master of Arts in International Studies thesis felt like a natural choice. Learn about his journey to combat climate change-induced conflict.

Sam Sommerfeld was one of the recipients of the 2021 International Studies Travel Grant and was able to participate in a 6-month exchange to Germany. Now that he’s returned he’s taken some time to reflect on his experience abroad.

Jasheil Athalia says one of the most important ways her academic training has informed her grassroots involvement is fostering her “systemic understanding of issues.”

Jenna Richmond, who is graduating with a major in International Studies, has been awarded the Dean’s Convocation Medal for academic excellence in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Congratulations, Jenna!

Members of our current cohort of Master's in International Studies students discuss what they are most excited for in the upcoming summer co-op term, as well as how the MAIS program has prepared them for career success.

Tori Wong, an alumnus of the Master of Arts in International Studies (MAIS) program, shares insights to their role as a Strategic Advisor at Women and Gender Equality Canada.

A recent graduate of SFU's Master's in International Studies, Vanessa Milost Gonzalez found her master's program gave her ample opportunity to explore and discover her passions.

International Studies student Ayaan Ismail used her time at SFU to advocate for refugee students and Black scholars.

Through coursework and cultural experiences, studying abroad in Paris shaped her critical understanding of politics and society in new ways writes Alex Senchyna, Simons Foundation International Travel Grant recipient.

When Rozy Karim came to Canada as a refugee in 1974, survival was her primary focus. Today, at the age of 65, she's learning how to make herself happy.

"The International Studies Travel Award (ISTA) was invaluable toward my research process" ISTA winner Rupi Sandher shares her experience conducting research on gender roles in Punjab, India.

Eleanor Li is spending the semester in Düsseldorf, Germany, completing a co-op position at the Consulate of Canada. An international studies major in the program's security and conflict concentration, Li first worked with Global Affairs Canada (GAC) through co-op last year.

"While there were vast differences in language, cultural practices, and politics, overall, I think my experience abroad taught me about the similarities people share." Simons Foundation travel grant recipient Jenna Richmond reflects on her time in Prague, Czech Republic.

Morgan Holt's enriching study abroad experience brought him everywhere from Paris, France to Izmit, Turkey.

Yara Younis is using policy and public programming to make a difference in the lives of newcomers, with help from the environment and background she’s found in the School for International Studies.

Gaining an insider’s perspective into the world of NGOs and a first taste of working in the international field.

Nicolas Tellez-España, recent international studies graduate minoring in economics, is now working to support individuals overcoming homelessness and poverty at Mission Possible in Vancouver’s DTES.

Drawn to international studies because of its interdisciplinary nature, Virk says one of the most valuable facets of her SFU education was taking her “hands-on experiences working with vulnerable populations globally” and incorporating these into “policy-making ideas”.

"I had the opportunity to meet and work with some incredible scholars, activists, and community leaders who inspired me to continue the work I was doing outside of my degree."

The key to her success has also been her biggest challenge: getting and staying organized to establish and maintain balance in her home-life, work-life, school-life.