Ajah Sias Transcript

What type of research are you interested in?
Feminist and Pan-Africanism theory in international relations 

Why did you choose CIR?
I chose CIR because of the opportunity to study different fields like international law, or humanitarian rights and because it's a well-known program that many professionals in the field of international politics and law recognize.

What question are you investigating in your thesis?
I wrote my thesis on how Black women are denied global citizenship, and are used as political tools for political agendas. I introduce many theoretical concepts in this thesis including W.E.B DuBois’s Global Color Line theory, and Christina Sharpe's writings from “In the Wake.” I introduce my own theoretical tools of Global Citizenship, and the Political Tool or Global Citizen dichotomy. I further explain that black women can’t be global citizens because of the historical, political, theoretical makings of slavery, and colonialism.

What support helped you with your thesis?
I consulted my thesis advisor and preceptor, Dr. Kara Hooser and Dr. Adam Parker,  for my thesis. I also took classes that I believed would help in writing my thesis.

What was your favorite course in the CIR program?
International Political Economy was difficult, but it exposed me to an area of study I wasn’t familiar with. It became my favorite because of its novelty. 

What is your favorite thing about the CIR program?
My classmates! Every student was eager to learn, and grow together. All of my classmates were inviting, fun loving, skilled, and knowledgeable. It became a great asset at times, and certainly a motivator for completing this program. 

What was your biggest challenge in the program?
My biggest challenge was the thesis process. It was hard to settle on a thesis topic, and craft a project that is new and exciting. However, it was a great exercise in engaging in profound thought. 

Why did you choose UChicago?
I chose the University of Chicago, because of the city, the pace of the CIR program, and the abundance of courses offered.

Describe living in Chicago for someone considering a move here.
Living in Chicago was such a great experience. The walkability, the nightlife, and the abundance of restaurants were the most exciting part about living in the city. The entire city, including Hyde Park, was full of great attractions and friendly, helpful people. 

What are your career aspirations now that you’ve graduated from the CIR program?
In the next few years, I hope to earn a JD, with a special interest in international law. I would like to work as a foreign or immigration policy analyst for the federal government, or a humanitarian organization. I’d also like to hold a staff attorney position at a reputable humanitarian organization.

What advice would you give to anyone who is thinking about applying to UChicago?
I would advise any prospective students to get acquainted with as many students, and professors that hold similar interests as you. Their perspectives are important, and will certainly make you a better student, and future CIR graduate.

What is one invaluable experience you feel UChicago, and CIR provided?
An alumni event hosted by the career development department, during which my classmates and I were introduced to alumni, who were working in various fields. It was encouraging, and exciting to see others on the other end of this program.