Graduate Certificate in Women and Gender Studies

Robin Brazier, 2021

Describe your dissertation, thesis, or capstone (if you completed one):

The Effects of Reproductive Healthcare Access on Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes in Guatemala: This project is an analysis of the health effects of limited reproductive healthcare access on women and infants in Guatemala, as demonstrated maternal and infant health outcomes.

How did you choose your specific area of study?

Global affairs is more relevant each and every day, and it encompasses so much of what I am interested in - geopolitics, public health, international development - and it is very much in line with my career, in which I have focused on public health programming and policy in Guatemala. Additionally, I pursued a graduate certificate in Women and Gender studies, because my interest in international development is particularly geared toward benefiting women, girls, and other marginalized genders.

How did your academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences impact you?

Being a part of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences has given me the opportunity to meet and learn from some amazing professors and colleagues, as well as given me a competitive advantage in the job market.

Of which accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud?

Global Affairs MA Academic Achievement Award, CHSS Outstanding Student Honoree, Top presentation during GLOA Student Research Week for Capstone Project.

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

Jennifer Ashley of GLOA was a rigorous instructor but from whom I learned the most, in her research methods course.

Rachel Lewis was a thought-provoking teacher, mentor, and advocate for me during my time at Mason while I pursued my GLOA Master's Degree and my Graduate Certificate in Women and Gender Studies.

I am incredibly grateful for both of these incredible educators!

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students?

I highly recommend connecting with and staying in touch with educators for whom you have a great deal of respect and whose classes you enjoyed. These are smart, passionate people who you can always learn from and turn to.

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

My degree at Mason helped me secure a new post at a USAID contractor, where I am learning so much and getting to work in my geographic area of interest (Central America) on public health issues. Long term, I would love to be an executive at a mission-driven organization, particularly one that improves reproductive health outcomes.