Andrew Greco

When are you graduating?

Spring 2024

Describe your dissertation, thesis, or capstone:

The title of my capstone project was "Oral Histories: Unveiling the Legacy of the Salvadoran Civil War."

The purpose of my research was to understand whether the experiences of a Salvadoran during the civil war played a role in their decision to immigrate and how this in turn affected their life trajectories, identity formation, and process of integration in the United States.

I conducted three in-depth oral history interviews on Salvadoran immigrants who endured the civil war throughout their adolescence and then immigrated to the Unites States. My research question was "What effects did the Salvadoran civil war of 1980-1992 have on a youth's decision to immigrate to the United States? Did these factors play a role in a Salvadoran immigrants' identity development and transition to adulthood in the United States post-conflict and post-migration?"

How did you choose your specific area of study?

Growing up in a multicultural and multiracial family as a third-culture kid overseas moving from post to post throughout Latin America and Asia played a major role in my decision to pursue my specific area of study. The diversity of my life experiences has allowed me to meet people and embrace different cultures from all over the world. These experiences have instilled within me a profound passion for making a positive impact and helping others in need.

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

My academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences have impacted me in many ways. Throughout the course of my graduate studies, I have learned a tremendous amount from coursework and extensive interdisciplinary research in topics related to economic globalization and development, global human rights policy, justice and the global environment, and the globalization in and of Africa. Throughout my coursework, I have gained skills, acquired extensive knowledge, and developed expertise in a number of different topics related to the dynamics of our globalized world.

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

The two accomplishments during my time at Mason that I am most proud of include:

Being selected by the department of Global Affairs to receive the Global Affairs academic excellence award.
Being nominated and selected by the department of Global Affairs to be a CHSS Outstanding Student Honoree for the 2024 graduating class.

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

I hold a deep appreciation for all of the professors that I had throughout my graduate studies. I want to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for Dr. Ukata, Dr. Son, Dr. Sauls, Dr. Salm, Dr. Repinecz, and Dr. Breglia for the profound impact that they had on my educational journey. Each professor brought their own professional expertise and unique style of teaching which encouraged students to think outside the box in developing a personal understanding of the complex issues that were discussed in lectures and seminars. I also want to thank Virginia and Dr. Rinker for their absolute support and guidance at every step of the way.

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

Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Develop meaningful relationships with everyone you have the privilege of interacting with.
Despite the importance of your academic endeavors, balance is key. Work hard in school but also find time for the things that make you happy.

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

After graduation, I hope to work overseas as a Foreign Service Officer at a U.S. embassy, in the non-profit sector, or in a non-governmental organization focusing on addressing issues related to poverty alleviation, human rights, and peace and security. I am inspired to dedicate myself to public service and help solve the problems of our interconnected world.