Trang graduated from SUA in 2020. She is currently pursuing a Masters’ Degree in International Affairs at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva, Switzerland. She is also interning at the World Trade Organization, working on fostering the role of the rules-based multilateral trading system in harnessing sustainable peace and security, especially in the context of fragile and conflict-affected states, as well as assisting governments in their accession process to the WTO.
How did International Studies prepare you for life after SUA?
The educational approach of INTS at Soka prepared me to analyze issues through an interdisciplinary lens, and critically approach policies and regulatory frameworks at the national, plurilateral and multilateral level. The rigorous and diverse curriculum exposed me to efficient and ethical research work, while learning to be comfortable to reach out for help and advice. That the professors are always so helpful and willing to help really helped shape who I am today, to not be afraid to connect with people and experts, to have confidence in myself and expressing my ideas, despite being in new environments.
What are some of your best memories and lessons from INTS classes?
The field trips are amazing opportunities for me to see how many theoretical frameworks, in international relations, sociology, anthropology, history and their intersectional features interact in real settings. The Learning Cluster trip on the slave trade and historical tourism in Ghana under the supervision of Prof James Spady really opened my eye on how intersectional issues work across borders. The International Law class I took with Professor Lisa MacLeod, who ultimately became my mentor for the Capstone project, was another memorable, rigorous, yet rewarding experience, both academically and personally. The COVID-19 pandemic came in the middle of my Capstone, which further highlights the role of her empathetic guidance. My experience under Professor MacLeod has greatly shaped how I am now approaching my career and my colleagues. The UN Study Tour, out of all, had really motivated me to pursue a career in multilateral institutions and international cooperation, those that can seem so estranged.
Do you have any advice for current INTS concentrators?
Be courageous. Having a background in Liberal Arts means your future education should be continued, as it should. This degree is different but as you move on with life, you will see how valuable it is to have a critical mindset while being open-minded and respectful of each other’s differences. This is what courage is about, to be brave to explore and pursue what you think is right, but with humility.