Meet our Graduate Student Ambassadors
The Graduate Student Ambassadors are a group of current students available to help answer questions about the Schar School, program and faculty expectations and school/work/life balance. Please reach out to scharamb@gmu.edu with your program of interest to connect with an Ambassador and hear about their experiences.
To view our student ambassadors by program, please click the links below.
Biodefense | Global Commerce and Policy | International Security |
ODKM | Public Administration | Public Policy
Kate Groves
Student status: Expected Graduation Spring 2026 - Full-time student
Hometown: Rochester, MN & New York City, NY
Undergrad: University of Vermont; Studied Public Health Sciences
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
I was drawn to the Schar School and its Biodefense program because of its unique and comprehensive approach to tackling global health security challenges. The program’s integration of policy analysis, scientific research, and biological sciences, combined with specialized electives in counterterrorism and emergency preparedness, aligns perfectly with my career goals in biodefense. I was particularly impressed by the opportunity to learn from distinguished faculty with real-world experience.
What has been your favorite class so far?
BIOD 605 Emerging Infectious Diseases II: Viral Agents. My favorite class so far has been my virology class with Dr. Grant. The class was so interdisciplinary despite being one of the more science/biology heavy courses in the degree. The crisis simulation we did throughout the semester really taught me a lot about how our government works and delegates when a there is a crisis/event involving bioterrorism or a pandemic. I loved all the student collaboration and I felt like we were learning just as much from each other as we were from Dr. Grant or the material.
What's your favorite weekend activity?
One of my favorite local-ish weekend activities is trying new brunch spots with friends. I love exploring the diverse array of brunch spots throughout the DMV area. As many weekends as we can, my friends and I love to try out different cafes and restaurants for brunch. We sample everything from inventive takes on classic dishes to unique international and regional specialties. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy great food, catch up with friends, and experience the vibrant culinary scene in the DMV area. Plus, it’s always fun to discover hidden gems and share recommendations with fellow brunch enthusiasts!
Alex Kyabarongo
Student status: Started Spring 2025 - Full-time student
Hometown: Kampala, Uganda
Undergrad: Makerere University; Studied Veterinary Medicine
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
As an early-career scientist with a passion for science policy, I knew there was no better place for me than the Schar School. I saw the Biodefense program as the perfect bridge between science and policy, and no institution is more reputable for offering it. I wanted to learn from the experiences of its distinguished faculty and expand my knowledge and expertise in Global Health Security, Pandemic Preparedness, and Biorisk Management. For me, it could only be the Schar School—especially with its location in Washington, D.C., where many of the most important science policy discussions take place.
What has been your favorite class so far?
POGO 750 Pandemics and Politics – This was taught by Prof. Saskia Popescu. This course clearly explained the disconnect between scientists and policymakers, as well as the political dynamics behind managing infectious disease events.
What's your favorite way to destress and unwind from the busy semester?
Soccer – I play it, I watch it, and I sometimes analyze it. I also enjoy a good trip that includes a hike.
What's your fun fact?
It might be surprising, but I hope to open a liquor store in my hometown someday—one that could grow into a vibrant entertainment hub, because I love music and the joy of seeing people happy.
Zarin Khan
Student status: Started Fall 2024 – Part-time student – Full-time employee with FDIC
Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
Undergrad: University of Virginia; Studied Foreign Affairs with an International Relations concentration
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
I wanted to build on my undergraduate studies in International Relations but was still determining what kind of M.A. program to pursue. After researching more about the GCP program, I knew this program had the right mix of international economics (something I lacked knowledge of), International Relations, and public policy rather than pursuing these topics individually. The program has a wide range of classes and topics allowing me to build on my interests in humanitarian development and global governance. Additionally, proximity to Washington, D.C., international organizations, and Schar's networking opportunities at an affordable price allowed me to invest in my education.
What has been your favorite class so far?
GCP 605 Technology, Culture and Commerce with Prof. Mark Langevin - I loved learning how commercial and capitalist ambitions deployed new/emerging technologies and shape culture.
What's your favorite way to destress and unwind from the busy semester?
I love binging documentaries and working out.
What's your favorite weekend activity?
Hiking, trying new restaurants and going to museums with friends!
Noah Mulligan
Student status: Expected Graduation Spring 2026 - Full-time student - Full-time Plastics Sustainability Coordinator/Researcher at The American Chemistry Council
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergrad: Christopher Newport University; Studied History and Political Science
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
The exceptional professors, the high degree of professionalism and maturity across the student body, and the program's affordability.
What's your favorite way to destress and unwind from the busy semester?
I go on a long jog or watch a new movie. I also love nighttime photography in D.C. and going to the Smithsonians.
Where's your favorite off-campus study spot?
I am a sucker for any of the D.C. public libraries, but for a local option, I love Northside Social.
Lorena Tapias
Student status: Started Spring 2025 - Part-time student - Full-time professional with Zehirut International
Hometown: Rockville, MD
Undergrad: George Washington University; Studied International Affairs and Political Science
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
The Terrorism, Transnational Crime and Corruption Center (TraCCC) caught my eye and that is when I started to research more about the ISEC program.
What has been your favorite class so far?
PUBP 506 Ethics and the Use of Force - I liked my Ethics and the Use of Force class, but I am absolutely looking forward to the classes I have this semester (PUBP 504 Grand Strategy and POGO 750 Intelligence Analysis) because I am already loving the readings.
What's your favorite way to destress and unwind from the busy semester?
I can’t believe I am saying it now, but I started to run this very hectic year and it turns out I don’t truly hate it and helps me to feel better.
What's your favorite weekend activity?
My current favorite thing to do is watch K-dramas while eating Korean food. I’m obsessed with Bonchon’s chicken wings, and I love trying all the Korean premade meals from Trader Joe’s (very affordable too).
Organization Development and Knowledge Management
Levance Everett III
Student status: Expected Graduation Spring 2026 – Part-time student – Full-time Assistant Director of Information Management at United States Agency for International Development; Office of Inspector General
Hometown: Woodbridge, VA
Undergrad: Norfolk State University; Studies Sociology
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
What really drew me to the Schar School and my program was the professors. I first crossed paths with one of them through work, in a setting completely unrelated to school. That single encounter opened the door to a journey of discovery and personal growth that never expected.
What has been your favorite class so far?
ODKM 605 Group Dynamics and Team Learning - It turned out to be a real tipping point for me. Looking back, it wasn’t just about what I learned, it was also an invaluable space to test out new ideas and try experiments. What I’m most looking forward to is hosting my learning community on November 15th. I’m excited to share with my colleagues, friends, and family not only what I’ve learned, but also how I’ve been able to connect theories and bring together everything I’ve gained from the program so far.
What's your favorite way to destress and unwind from the busy semester?
My family and I love adventure. We love to hike and visit the national parks; so far, we have hiked and visited over 100 parks and memorials nationwide!
What's your favorite weekend activity?
My favorite local-ish weekend spot(s) would be hiking in Prince William Forest Park, enjoying a plate of crab fired rice and wings with Mambo sauce from The Hamilton, the Commanders getting a WIN, a pint of London Pride from Elephant and Castle, brunch from Gyu San, and Sunday Service at First Mount Zion.
Public Administration
Stephanie Horta
Stephanie Horta
Student status: Started Fall 2025 – Part-time student – Full-time Senior Program Associate, Learning Innovation at the National Legal Aid and Defender Association
Hometown: Queens, NY
Undergrad: CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice; Studied Political Science
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
What drew me to the Schar School was the combination of its welcoming culture and comprehensive academic approach, particularly the emphasis on real-world application in the courses. Within the MPA program, I was drawn to the versatility and opportunity to shape my concentration by fusing courses across different areas. As someone with diverse professional interests, focusing on a multifaceted career within the public sector, I felt this program was best fit to meet my goals.
What class are you most looking forward to in the program?
As a new student, I am really excited about the study abroad electives the Schar School offers. Specifically, I am excited about the opportunity to travel to Mexico, Costa Rica, or South Africa, as these courses align with my professional goals and even, personal interests.
Where's your favorite off-campus study spot?
As an avid coffee drinker and sweet treat lover, I am looking forward to studying at all the different coffee shops in the area! I also look forward to visiting the libraries on and off campus.
What's your fun fact?
A fun fact about me is that I got my scuba diving license in Colombia when I was in 6th grade.
Jenna Spencer
Student status: Expected graduation Spring 2026 – Full-time student – Marketing and Outreach Intern at Touch Grass Connect
Hometown: Midland, MI
Undergrad: Loyola University Chicago; Studied Political Science and Anthropology
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
One big draw for me for the Schar School Graduate Program was its location. Not only do I love cities and enjoyed the idea of living near Washington, DC, but the location seemed perfect for my program. Where better to study Public Administration than the nation's capitol? The opportunities I've had here are unparalleled-- I've been able to meet so many people doing amazing things and have had multiple internships that have helped me expand my skills and taught me so much. Another draw for me was seeing the statistics of where people who graduated with an MPA from the Schar School worked. When I decided to go to grad school, I wasn't sure exactly what field I wanted to go into, and I liked seeing the variety of different fields people have gone into after graduating here and how diverse the degree was. The MPA program at the Schar School is also highly ranked in the U.S. News & World Ranking, which I was impressed by.
Where's your favorite weekend activity?
I love going into DC and exploring there, specifically doing all the touristy things. My goal is to go to all the Smithsonians by the time I graduate.
What's your fun fact?
I’m a big F1 fan and love watching the races on Sunday mornings. Usually I try to make some pancakes and an iced coffee to have while I start it!
Public Policy
Nicole Guimarães
Student status: Started Fall 2025 – Full-time student
Hometown: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Undergrad: Federal Fluminense University; Studied Cultural Studies
Previous Masters: University of Brasilia; Studied Communications
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
Honestly, it was not hard to choose the Schar School. Compared with the other program I have applied for, the admission process was very well-organized, responsive and I could find any information I needed very easily. This was key for me. Besides that, the MPP program offers options of in-person and online classes. This is essential for a student like me that has a young child and is not ready to commute many days a week. Finally, I was looking for a specialization in economic policy and the Schar school has great faculty members and courses that align with my professional interest.
What class are you most looking forward to in the program?
I am looking forward to PUBP 500 Theory and Practice in Public Policy, especially because I would love to hear more about Professor Melissa Adelman's experience as a development economist.
What's your favorite way to destress and unwind from the busy semester?
My favorite ways to destress are spending time with my family, practicing yoga, and going for walks.
What's your fun fact?
I am passionate about learning about different cultures and people, and I have already visited more than 20 countries across South America, Central America, North America, Europe, and Africa.
Mackenzie Rowe
Student status: Expected Graduation Fall 2026 – Part-time student – Full-time Government Relations Manager at AV (Defense contractor)
Hometown: Kennebunk, ME
Undergrad: Quinnipiac University; Studied Political Science
What drew you to the Schar School and your program?
I was drawn to Schar's MPP program for a few reasons. The proximity to Washington, DC was a huge factor, given the nature of my interests in defense policy. Additionally, the backgrounds of professors in the school - having a blend between academia and professional experience - presented a great opportunity to learn the most from them. Finally, Schar offering an emphasis area in national security and public policy at an affordable cost made the option of going back to school a reality for me.
What's your favorite way to destress and unwind from the busy semester?
I love to read! Curling up with a good (non-academic) book is my favorite past-time.
What has been your favorite class so far?
POGO 750 Policy & Law: Legal Framework of National Security Decision Making - Professor McCabe is fantastic, and our small class size really allowed us to dig in with real world examples. (The content of the course itself was also fascinating and very timely)
Where's your favorite off-campus study spot?
I love Northside Social, so close to campus and great food and drink options!
What's your fun fact?
I grew up in the same area where President Bush (both 41 & 43) have their summer home, Walker’s Point!