Bringing the Voices of Marginalized Communities to the Forefront
Name: Aisha Kimbrough
Home Countries: The U.S. and Eritrea
Degree: Master of Arts in International Relations
Scholarship: Public Service Fellow
Before joining the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), what were you doing?
After graduating from Whitman College with a bachelor’s degree in politics, I taught English at a bilingual high school in Seville, Spain and then at Universidade Federal da Bahia in Salvador, Brazil as a Fulbright Scholar.I also worked in the non-profit sector as a development associate and program lead, serving youth in rural Minnesota and leading community-based programs that target vulnerable populations such as undocumented migrants and low-income families.
I came to SAIS to see my dream through — to gain the necessary tools, network, and knowledge to make an impact and bring the voices of marginalized communities to the forefront of decision-making.
What led you to SAIS?
Growing up in a migrant-working community in rural Minnesota, I witnessed political, socioeconomic, and health disparities that created cycles of poverty, food insecurity, and mental health crises in our community. From a very young age, I knew I wanted to be a leader and impact decision-making. As the first in my family with an opportunity to pursue and obtain a higher education, I understood that I needed to become a leader.I came to SAIS to see my dream through — to gain the necessary tools, network, and knowledge to make an impact and bring the voices of marginalized communities to the forefront of decision-making.
The SAIS community gathers each fall to celebrate one of SAIS’ most beloved traditions, International Dinner.
What has been your favorite experience at SAIS and why?
My favorite SAIS experience has been the International Dinner, where student clubs and organizations share and celebrate their diverse cultures and cuisines. At this event, I was able to build connections with other SAISers and learn about their personal stories.What do you plan on pursuing after graduation?
While I’m in the process of defining what my post-SAIS experience will look like, I see myself in a career that allows me to build sustainable and equitable financing mechanisms and development strategies in economically-emerging communities ranging from climate infrastructure and finance to entrepreneurship and digitalization.What is one piece of advice you would give to students in the process of choosing graduate schools?
A school’s reputation is important, but think beyond the school’s name and prestige. Think more about what you want your day-to-day life in graduate school to look like, the kind of academic experience you want, and professional or networking opportunities the school offers. Find opportunities to speak with current students and learn from their experience. Look into the institution’s research, student-led newspapers, and journals to get an idea of the level of analytical depth and variety of subjects.Whose support has made your journey at SAIS possible?
So many people and communities have made my journey at SAIS possible — my family, friends, mentors, church and spiritual community, and my personal vision and drive. They have guided me and continue to uplift me and keep me grounded throughout my SAIS experience, reminding me to be authentic, intentional, and grateful for this chapter in my life.Who have you learned the most from during your time at SAIS?
I’ve learned so much from my peers, their passions, and their aspirations. They’ve taught me how to think more expansively about my future career and contribution to international relations.If you are looking to learn more about what it's like to be a current student at Johns Hopkins SAIS, we encourage you to schedule a virtual appointment with one of our Admissions Fellows.
Enjoyed reading Aisha's experience? Learn more about our Master of Arts in International Relations.
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