A Valuable and Flexible Opportunity to Gain Expertise in International Relations
Sanaa Vika
Certificate in International Studies
Home Country: Norway
During the course of her career and prior education, Sanaa Vika discovered a passion for international relations, which is particularly relevant in her current role as an executive assistant to the defense attaché at the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Washington, D.C. Eager to further expand upon her knowledge in the field, Sanaa applied to the graduate certificate program at Johns Hopkins SAIS, where she knew she would receive a top rate-education based on the school’s world-renowned reputation.
The in-depth knowledge that Sanaa gained through the school so far has been a strong complement to her professional work. Sanaa has deeply appreciated the opportunity to gain a greater insight into current world affairs from different perspectives.
Among the qualities Sanaa likes most about SAIS are the highly engaging classroom discussions and the unique contributions her classmates bring to the table. Sanaa admits that when she first began classes, she was a little intimidated by the impressive student body. But because of the school’s friendly learning environment, she was able to quickly adapt to the classroom and make valuable connections along the way.
Due to the flexibility of the certificate program, Sanaa has been able to easily manage a full-time career and her studies. This past summer, she took her first two classes towards the certificate, which were conveniently offered in the evening. This allowed her to focus on her schoolwork after the work day. She specifically highlighted a course on theories of international relations, as one where she really felt pushed and positively challenged by the faculty. She now feels like she’s a better student of international relations theories, which directly enhances her work at the embassy.
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