Student Reflections: Miriam Pineda-Gonzalez & Kareem Al-Eid

Meet Miriam and Kareem. They are current students in the inaugural cohort for the M.S. in Environment & International Affairs (MS-EIA) program: an interdisciplinary graduate degree between the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, Walsh School of Foreign Service, Earth Commons Institute, and the Science, Technology and International Affairs (STIA) program. Miriam and Kareem reflect on their experience as current students in the MS-EIA program.

Miriam Pineda-Gonzalez:

Why did you choose the M.S. in Environment & International Affairs program?

My background is in both environmental science and international relations, yet these fields were typically studied in isolation, without a course that fully integrated the two. Given my interest in advancing climate policy, the MS-EIA program stood out as the ideal fit to bridge this gap because it offers the interdisciplinary approach I need to pursue meaningful work in global climate policy.

What has been the best part of the M.S. in Environment & International Affairs program so far? 

The best part of the M.S. in Environment & International Affairs program so far has definitely been the people—my classmates and professors alike. Every class discussion brings out such diverse perspectives and experiences, making each session feel eye-opening and thought-provoking. Our professors’ depth of knowledge and real-world experience push us to think critically and tackle environmental issues in ways I hadn’t considered before, which makes the coursework incredibly engaging. Outside of class, the happy hours hosted by the program give us a chance to connect on a personal level, creating a supportive and inspiring community. This balance of challenging academics and genuine camaraderie has made the program truly rewarding.

What are you looking forward to the most in this program?

I’m especially looking forward to the capstone project at the start of the summer. I am excited to be able to have the opportunity to apply everything we’ve been learning to tackle real-world environmental issues in a hands-on, meaningful way. The project will be a chance to collaborate closely with my peers and apply the knowledge and skills we’ve developed throughout the program. I’m looking forward to diving into a challenge that combines research, analysis, and creative problem-solving, because I think the capstone will be a rewarding culmination of all our work.

Any advice for prospective students interested in the program?

My advice for prospective students interested in the M.S. in Environment & International Affairs program is to stay curious and open to the interdisciplinary nature of the curriculum. The program combines global environmental issues with international policy, so it’s ideal for those who want to approach sustainability from multiple perspectives. It’s also important to engage actively with your professors and classmates because they bring a wealth of knowledge and experiences that make a dynamic learning environment. As the current Student Program Assistant, I’m here to help answer any questions you might have. If you’d like to learn more, feel free to schedule a one-on-one Zoom chat with me and I’d be happy to discuss the program and share insights on what makes it unique!

Kareem Al-Eid:

Why did you choose the M.S. in Environment & International Affairs program?

I chose the MS-EIA program because it represents a sophisticated intersection of international relations and environmental sciences that goes beyond the theoretical with a comprehensive structure, allowing for both breadth and depth which aligns perfectly with my interests in international relations, energy policy and sustainable development.

What has been the best part of the M.S. in Environment & International Affairs program so far?

The best part of the program has been its seamless integration of academic knowledge with real-world applications through specialized courses and hands-on projects. This approach takes learning beyond traditional textbooks and lecture halls, allowing me to engage with complex concepts in practical, meaningful ways. The program’s strong connections with international organizations and industry experts have also enriched my experience, offering exclusive opportunities to engage with policymakers and partake in events that connect theoretical knowledge with issues of global importance.

What are you looking forward to the most in this program?

Given that this program proved to be not merely a vessel for passive knowledge but a gauntlet for those willing to engage with the complex interplay of climate policy, sustainable development, and global geopolitics, I look forward to engaging with corresponding practicalities through the capstone project. Furthermore, the chance to continue networking and communicating with industry leaders and policymakers is of great value, and I am excited to deepen my existent knowledge and understanding of the necessary perspectives to address the challenges of our era.

Any advice for prospective students interested in the program?

This is no place for the complacent, but for the committed—those willing to view the global energy crisis as not merely a dilemma, but a responsibility. For anyone seeking more than just a degree, for those looking to stand at the crossroads of policy and change, the MS-EIA program offers an unparalleled crucible for personal and intellectual transformation.

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