MEMBER’S VOICES:

AFIA IBNAT

ACADEMIC OFFICER
2022

My name is Afia and I’m from Bangladesh. My research interest lies in examining the factors behind democratic backsliding in countries, particularly Bangladesh. I enjoy learning, engaging in discourse, and coleslaw, but my favorite activity – and this is a bit controversial – is having the time to not do anything at all!

WHEN & WHY DID YOU JOIN IRSA?

I joined the IRSA earlier in Spring 2022 and soon became the Academic Officer. But before that, what drew me towards the IRSA was its highly engaging and competitive events. I used to attend some of them here and there – the trivia contests were especially fun for me, and winning cool prizes such as movie tickets was great as well.

HOW IS IT LIKE BEING A MEMBER OF IRSA?

Being part of the IRSA is great because it’s a talented group of like-minded individuals who are dedicated to creating an environment conducive to learning in groups. There are trivia contests, reading groups, and treasure hunts, but most importantly, these events give you the opportunity to grow your creativity, organizational skills, knowledge base, and capacity to work in teams.

WHY SHOULD IR STUDENTS JOIN IRSA?

I’d definitely recommend it to those who want to have an outlet outside of academia that’s also IR-related. There’s room for different skill sets such as public relations, marketing, research and event management. Overall, you’ll simultaneously find opportunities to widen your horizons and also have a good time!

MAKI ISHIZUKA

PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
2022

I’m Maki Ishizuka from the Philippines! My research interests include political ideology and policy-making, and I like to read books, watch documentaries, and play the Sims 4!

WHEN & WHY DID YOU JOIN IRSA?

I joined IRSA since its launch in the Spring of 2021 because I wanted to participate in IR-related activities and interact with my fellow IR students outside the classroom setting.

HOW IS IT LIKE BEING A MEMBER OF IRSA?

I’m enjoying it so far, and I’ve really improved my time management skills by balancing my tasks both as a student and an IRSA member! As the head of the Public Relations committee, I have sharpened my creative skills and developed a sense of teamwork with other IRSA members. To quote the Wonder Pets theme song: “What’s gonna work? Teamwork!”

WHY SHOULD IR STUDENTS JOIN IRSA?

I really think IR students should join IRSA because it is a good platform to participate in IR-related extracurricular activities and expand your network in TIU. You can also gain skills and experiences in organizing meaningful events, fostering partnerships with other clubs & organizations, planning promotional strategies. Improving creative skills through creating promotional materials is a bonus!