BA in Integrative Studies

Alessaundra Shallal

How did you decide on the INTS program? 

When I chose the only “pre-law” (legal studies) curriculum GMU offered, landing in the School of Integrative Studies was purely by coincidence. Now, as a rising senior, I wouldn’t change that decision for the world. The curriculum has helped me grow as an academic, professional, and most importantly, a person. INTS’s versatility has allowed me to customize my education and claim it confidently, giving me both an edge and endless opportunities as I prepare for law school.

What have you learned in an INTS class that really surprised you/changed your perspective?

In INTS 362: Social Justice and Human Rights with Dr. Shayna Maskell, I learned that international lawmaking bodies have never created a single, all-encompassing definition of “culture” because of its subjectivity worldwide. What began as a discussion board post turned into a 3-page exploration of how human rights can be viewed through international, national, and local lenses without overstepping on cultural traditions. It opened my eyes to how legal ambiguity – as seen in anti-discrimination policy, the reversal of Roe v. Wade, and global immigration/refugee crises – fails to protect the people it claims to serve, and it strengthened my determination to fight those gaps as an aspiring attorney.

Tell us about your dream occupation and how your INTS degree will help you achieve it. 

My journey as a young Chaldean-American woman pursuing a legal career has taught me the importance of adaptability and confidence. The legal profession’s elitist, male-dominated, and non-diverse nature poses unique challenges, but my commitment to integrative learning has prepared me to navigate and overcome these barriers. 

While I plan to choose my specialization after my 1L year, I hope to support people in countries that receive little international attention, such as my ancestral homeland, by expanding access to resources and opportunities that empower them to thrive.

Have you had any internships? Or interesting jobs or volunteer experiences that relate to work in the INTS program? Tell us about it/them.

I’ve been fortunate to engage in several internships and volunteer roles that align closely with my INTS studies and passion for legal and social justice. As a community volunteer with RILA since the beginning of the year and an EL Summer School volunteer for four summers, I support immigrant families – an act of gratitude to my own family. Being a supportive presence for people facing the uncertainties of expensive legal fees or ICE enforcement is deeply rewarding, while supporting first-generation students navigating language barriers has taught me the importance of leadership, compassion, and resilience.

I also interned with the Better Evidence Project, researching and curating sources on peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts in Iraq to inform legislators and practitioners. This unique opportunity allowed me to apply my interdisciplinary background to a field I didn’t know much about, as well as work alongside inspiring mentors like Dr. Jeff Helsing and Kamila Elyazgi.

Additionally, I have legal internship experience in immigration and general practice firms, and hope to secure more internships with law firms soon.

Any accomplishments you’re proud of, or research opportunities you’ve taken advantage of, here at Mason?

During my time at Mason, I’ve been honored to earn two scholarships and take on leadership roles that shaped my campus impact – serving on the Community Adjudication Board, the Academic Standards Committee, and as an Honors College ambassador. 

Further, on August 1, 2025, I proudly presented my historical study, Living Between Labels: Race, Religion, and Recognition Among MENA Students at GMU (1960–2025), at the OSCAR Celebration Symposium. I am deeply honored to have the opportunity and support to continue developing this work. My goal is to expand and replicate the study with Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) students at other DMV colleges, and to create a strong framework that can help other minority groups assert their rights in academia – whether through comprehensive anti-discrimination policies or truly inclusive environments that are not only available as resources but actively encouraged and utilized.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. 

My favorite animated film is Alice in Wonderland, which I make a point to watch at least once a month. I’m drawn to its distinctive animation, whimsical charm, and literary elements that mirror Lewis Carroll’s novels, which I proudly own.

What did we miss that you think prospective INTS students need to know? 

Make connections with everyone! Don’t overlook a peer or professor just because you think you may not click at first. Ask questions, attend office hours or club meetings, and take the time to get to know people beyond when you need something.