Social Justice and Human Rights Concentration

Abhigya Pandey

Why did you choose George Mason University and the Interdisciplinary Studies Program?

To be completely honest, one of the main reasons I chose George Mason University was because of its Interdisciplinary Studies program. Coming from a background in Development Studies and being an international student, I was searching for graduate programs that would allow me to explore global or multi-disciplinary perspectives. When I found the MAIS program, it immediately felt like the right fit. What drew me in was its flexibility and the way it encourages students to approach complex global issues from multiple angles.

What lead you to choosing your concentration within MAIS? 

I’ve always been passionate about women and gender studies, international development, and human rights, and the Social Justice and Human Rights concentration gives me the space to bring those interests together in meaningful ways. What I appreciate most about this concentration is that it’s not just focused on learning theories; it’s about applying them to real-world challenges, thinking critically about systems of power and inequality, and working across disciplines to find ethical and practical solutions. That’s the kind of impact I want to have, and this concentration is helping me build the foundation to do that.

What part of your degree program has had the most impact on you?

The most impactful part of my degree program has been its incredible flexibility. Being able to choose my own classes has allowed me to shape my academic journey around the issues I’m truly passionate about. I’ve had the chance to study abroad for a winter program focused on conflict analysis and am preparing for another one this summer, which has deeply enriched my understanding of global justice work. I’ve taken courses on globalization, gender, race, and research methodologies and together, they’ve helped me connect the dots across disciplines in a way that feels both personal and purposeful.

Honestly, I think the Interdisciplinary Studies program is one of the most underrated degrees out there. It’s like creating your own degree, tailored to who you are and the kind of change you want to make in the world. That freedom to explore, question, and build knowledge across fields has had a huge impact on me, not just academically, but personally and professionally, too.

What are your long-term career goals? How do you hope to use your degree and studies in the future? 

My long-term career goal is to work in the field of international development. I’m committed to making the unheard voices heard, especially those of women and marginalized communities whose experiences are often ignored in decision-making spaces. I also hope to play a role in shaping inclusive and sustainable policies that truly reflect the needs of these communities, both in my home country, Nepal, and around the world.

What advice would you give to new or prospective students in interested in your concentration?

My advice to new or prospective students interested in the Social Justice and Human Rights concentration is to come in with an open mind and a willingness to challenge what you think you already know. What I love about this concentration is how it allows you to connect the dots between issues that are often treated separately, like gender, race, class, and global inequality. One of the most transformative things I’ve learned is the concept of intersectionality. It completely shifted the way I see the world and the work I want to do. If you’re passionate about justice, equity, and meaningful change, this concentration will not only broaden your understanding, it will change you.

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your Mason career?

I can truly say that all my professors have made a significant difference in my journey at Mason, and I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to each one of them. Special thanks to Dr. Julie Owen, Dr. Wendi Manuel Scott, Dr. Andrea Zach, Dr. Roland Wilson, Dr. Borislava Manojlovic, and John R. Gallagher for their insightful teaching and guidance.

I’m also looking forward to taking a class with Dr. Shayna Maskell next semester. She has been such a great advisor to me—so accommodating and encouraging. I’m excited for the opportunity to learn more from her.

Dr. Julie Owen has also been instrumental in my development. Her Women and Leadership class made me feel connected, comfortable, and empowered. She has been a great mentor. I’m very excited to collaborate with her on my MA project, as she has truly been an incredible support throughout my journey.

Additionally, I serve as a Graduate Assistant for the Center for Leadership and Intercultural Engagement on campus, and I’m incredibly grateful for my supervisors and the professional staff there who have had such a positive impact on my time at Mason. I want to thank Lisa Snyder, Dr. Nick Lennon, and Phil Rippa; without their support, I honestly don’t know where I’d be.

Describe your experiential learning.

This summer, for my Experiential Learning, I am very excited to participate in The Balkans Case: Reconciliation and Post-Conflict Reconstruction in the Aftermath of Mass Violence study abroad program, taking place in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia. This program, led by Dr. Borislava Manojlovic and Dr. Roland B. Wilson, offers a unique opportunity to explore the aftermath of the 1990s conflicts in the former Yugoslavia, which are considered Europe's devastating conflicts since World War II.

The program will provide an immersive experience as we explore the complex processes of reconciliation, peacebuilding, and post-conflict reconstruction. We will examine topics like memory eradication, denial, history education, non-violent movements, and the role of gender in addressing divisive pasts. Visiting key sites and engaging with organizations such as the UNDP Sarajevo, the Post-conflict Research Center, and Youth Initiative for Human Rights, we will learn firsthand how these communities are confronting their history and working toward healing.