From Refugee Resettlement to Global Diplomacy: A Journey Through SAIS
Full Name: Fauvé Liggans-Hubbard
Degree: Master of Arts in International Relations (MAIR) ‘25– first year BO
Scholarship: Charles B. Rangel Fellow
From resettling refugees to embracing global diplomacy, Fau’s journey through Johns Hopkins SAIS, particularly at SAIS Europe, has been transformative. The experience provided deep regional insights, strong community connections, and set the stage for a future career in the Foreign Service, bridging ties between the U.S. and the global community.
Before joining Johns Hopkins SAIS, what were you doing?
Before attending SAIS, I worked at a refugee resettlement agency, the International Institute of St. Louis. Working with refugees from the moment they stepped off the plane through the crucial first few months of their arrival in the U.S. was a transformative experience that was equally challenging and rewarding.I was particularly drawn to SAIS because of its multiple campuses. Studying for a year at SAIS Europe allowed me to learn from professors and peers with in-depth experience and knowledge in regions beyond the U.S., all while being part of a close-knit community.
What led you to Johns Hopkins SAIS?
I was particularly drawn to SAIS because of its multiple campuses. Studying for a year at SAIS Europe allowed me to learn from professors and peers with in-depth experience and knowledge in regions beyond the U.S., all while being part of a close-knit community.What has been your favorite experience at SAIS and why?
One of my favorite memories at SAIS was attending a concert and fireworks festival in the main square of Bologna with other students. We danced to the music in front of the church and watched the fireworks go off behind the iconic clock tower—definitely a core memory.What do you plan on pursuing after graduation? Where do you see yourself 5-10 years after graduation?
After graduation, I will join the Department of State as a Foreign Service Officer. While I don’t know exactly where I will be in 5-10 years, I hope it will be in another country, using the skills, knowledge, and connections I gained at SAIS to strengthen ties between the American people and the global community.
What is one piece of advice you would give to students in the process of choosing graduate schools?
My advice is to choose a program that genuinely aligns with your interests and a school with an environment that truly speaks to you. When studies get challenging, it will be your passion for the material and the strength of connections within the community that help you persevere.Whose support has made your journey at SAIS possible and why?
My journey at SAIS has been made possible by the unwavering support of my mother. She has been my pillar through all things in life, and one of my favorite memories from this past year was dancing with her in the streets of Italy when she came to visit.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 Fauvé's experience? Learn more about our Master of Arts in International Relations (MAIR).
Back to Student Stories