THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
Ajah Sias, CIR’24
Ajah Sias, a recent graduate of the Committee on International Relations, has a strong interest in feminist and Pan-Africanism theory in international relations. Ajah chose to join CIR because of its outstanding reputation and the diverse range of coursework it offers. She notes, "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."
Ajah found the camaraderie and dedication of her classmates to be one of the most rewarding aspects of the CIR program. Her peers played a significant role in making her educational journey enjoyable and enriching. "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," she reflects. Additionally, UChicago’s location in the city of Chicago was a significant factor in her decision. She praises the city for its walkability, vibrant nightlife, and friendly atmosphere, stating, "Living in Chicago was such a great experience. The entire city, including Hyde Park, was full of great attractions and friendly, helpful people."
Ajah’s thesis explored how Black women are denied global citizenship and used as tools for political agendas, drawing on theoretical frameworks such as W.E.B DuBois’s Global Color Line theory. Crafting this thesis was both a challenging and transformative experience for her. “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," Ajah shares. She credits the support of her thesis advisor, Dr. Kara Hooser, and preceptor, Dr. Adam Parker, as well as the courses she took, for helping her navigate this complex project.
Looking towards the future, Ajah envisions herself earning a JD with a specialization in international law. She aspires to work as a foreign or immigration policy analyst for the federal government or a humanitarian organization and also desires to hold a staff attorney position at a reputable humanitarian organization. Reflecting on the invaluable experiences CIR provided, Ajah highlights an event hosted by the Career Services that introduced her to alumni working in various fields. "It was encouraging and exciting to see others on the other end of this program," she remarks. Her advice to prospective students is to connect with individuals who share similar interests, as their perspectives can greatly enhance one’s academic and professional growth.