College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences > Academics > International Studies > About > Alumni Spotlight > Laura Jung

Laura Jung

Program: INT Master's Program
Year of graduation: 2011
Thesis Focus: Afro-Indigenous Resistance to Development-led Dispossession

How did the International Studies Program impact you?
The INT Program had a tremendous impact on my worldview and considerably improved my critical thinking and writing skills. The knowledge and perspectives I gained through my studies at INT, which must be credited to outstanding and dedicated faculty like Michael McIntyre, Shiera Malik, Kaveh Ehsani, and Heidi Nast, has helped me in “real-world” work and in my academic endeavors.

What are some of your major accomplishments since graduating from INT?
In 2012, I presented original research at the International Studies Association Conference in San Diego: ¡Honduras Resiste! Social Media & the Efficacy of the Honduran Resistance Movement. Currently, I am an officer in the Anthropology Graduate Student Council, an entity that advocates for Graduate student resources on behalf of our department and sponsors workshops and seminars for professional academic development. Also, I am a guest-writer for the blog, The Learned Fangirl, writing about gender norms and patriarchy in the popular television show Doctor Who.

What are you doing now?
I am currently at American University in Washington, DC, pursuing a PhD in Anthropology with a concentration in Race, Gender, and Social Justice. My research focuses on inequalities that form the basis of non-profit humanitarian aid.

Is there anything you’d like to say to current or prospective INT students?
Keep in touch with your INT family and never forget the foundational knowledge you acquired through this fantastic program! It will help you in whatever you decide to do after school. My INT education has been so helpful in my success as a PhD student and during my work with social movement organizations. Feel free to email me if ever you have questions about PhD programs, the MA program, or working with social movements and non-profit organizations – my email is laura.jung325@gmail.com.