March Student of the Month

Meet Mehr Sher, Humanities and Social Sciences Student of the Month

Hometown: Raleigh, NC

Class:  Senior

Major:  International Studies

Sample Courses:

• The United Nations and Global Order
• Technology in Society and Culture
• Modern Asia: 1800-Present

Activities:

• Curriculum Integration Coordinator, NC State Study Abroad Office, Fall 2014-present
• Undergraduate Research: “Effects of the Nation-state System on Tribal Societies: A Case Study of the Pashtuns,” Fall 2014-present
• Member, Korean Conversation Club
• Member, Model United Nations
• Member, Muslim Student Association
• Member, National Society of Collegiate Scholars

Honors:

• Sigma Iota Rho, International Studies Honors Society
• Dean’s List, NC State and Wake Technical Community College

Postgraduate Plans:

I see myself continuing in International Relations/Global Affairs as a foreign correspondent and public policy theorist.

What do you enjoy most about Humanities and Social Sciences?

When I was a student at Wake Tech, I joined the Korean Conversation Club here on the NC State campus. I found a mentor in that group who encouraged me to pursue international studies; it has been the perfect fit and I have never looked back. There are so many amazing opportunities here. I grab everything that comes my way so that I can make the most of my degree.

What are some of your favorite Humanities and Social Sciences courses?

The Senior Seminar in International Studies with Dr. Raja Abillama allowed me to bring together all the academic skills I had acquired up to that point, and was a great platform to do academic research.  My Introduction to Women’s and Gender Studies course with Dr. Emily Martin-Hondros introduced me to the complexities in our society, breaking down what seem like simple layers into their multiple dimensions.  I had a better understanding of not only gender inequality, but overall inequality among different groups.

What has been your greatest challenge so far?

Prioritizing!  Thinking about what classes and activities will be most helpful for diversifying my skill set.  This is critical, as I am now a senior, trying to find a job and apply my experiences.  Fortunately, I have had numerous professors and advisors who have guided and inspired me, such as Dr. Abillama, Dr. Rod Cockshutt (English), Dr. Tom Lisk (English), and Dr. Joseph Palis (International Studies).

What advice would you give incoming students?

Take time to understand yourself – what do you succeed at and what are you passionate about?  Be sure to take advantage of all that is available on campus; apply for opportunities even if you think you won’t get them.  Invest in yourself and your future.