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This MBA student is already putting her degree to work

Sarah Holland — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 15:30:18 +0000

This MBA student is already putting her degree to work Sarah Holland Fri, 12/12/2025 - 10:30

Working full-time while getting a graduate degree is no easy feat. But for Air Force veteran and soon-to-be George Mason Ģ��AV alum Kathleen Gillmore, hard work is second nature.

Gillmore is graduating from George Mason in fall 2025 with a master of business administration and a graduate certificate in business analytics. She started her degree at the same time she started as a data analyst at Accenture Federal Services.

What made you choose George Mason?

I first heard about George Mason from my husband, who grew up in Reston and knew the school well. When we moved to Virginia after leaving the Air Force, he recommended George Mason so we could stay close to family and have a solid support system.

Once I researched the university myself, I was really drawn to its strong ties with major tech and business companies in Northern Virginia, as well as its connection to federal agencies. I chose George Mason because it offers a great pathway into both the local industry and government sectors.

How have your professors impacted your time at George Mason?

My business analytics professors have made a huge impact on me. They really fueled my love for working with data, and I enjoyed getting hands-on experience with the different analytics software we used in class. Being able to apply what I was learning with real tools made the material come alive and helped me grow both technically and professionally.

How have your classes helped prepare you for your work as a data analyst?

My classes have directly supported my work at Accenture Federal Services. The business-focused courses helped me understand how organizations operate from a strategic and operational perspective, which improved my ability to interpret the “why” behind the data. The business analytics classes taught me to approach data from multiple angles and to think more critically about patterns, insights, and decision-making. These skills have translated seamlessly into my current role.

How do you hope this degree will advance your career?

This degree has expanded my knowledge in both business and analytics, and I’m already applying what I’ve learned in my current role. Looking ahead, I see the MBA as a versatile credential that will help me continue advancing in roles that involve analytical problem-solving and strategic decision-making. It opens doors across many areas of business and gives me the flexibility to pursue opportunities in different industries as my career grows.

What is one piece of advice you would give to an incoming student?

Use everything George Mason offers: office hours, workshops, software access, and especially the networking events and career fairs. Those resources not only help you stay on track academically, but they also open the door to meaningful professional connections and opportunities.

What's next for you?

Academically, after completing this degree, I will be returning to George Mason next year to pursue a second master’s degree in data analytics engineering. Professionally, I look forward to applying everything I’ve learned in the MBA to continue growing as a data analyst and to open up new career opportunities. I’m excited to build on the momentum from this program and position myself for roles that allow me to contribute more strategically and analytically within my field.

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Global affairs grad encourages others to give back to their communities

Katarina Benson — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 19:17:17 +0000

Global affairs grad encourages others to give back to their communities Katarina Benson Wed, 12/10/2025 - 14:17

Tereana Battle can look back on many accomplishments during her time at George Mason Ģ��AV, but one of the memories that gives her the most satisfaction is her capstone project, creating an anti-bullying workshop for middle school students.

With her workshop, she helped equip students in Loudoun County with cultural competency skills so they can treat one another with kindness and respect.

A native of Chesapeake, Virginia, Battle is graduating this month with a bachelor’s degree in global affairs.

Battle said giving back to the community is important to her because as a young person she sought out mentorship and guidance and wanted to provide that for other students. During her time at George Mason, she served as a Patriot Leader, helping new students and their families make the transition to college through Orientation and other programs.

Battle also participated in the Bonner Leadership Program, which combines exploration of citizenship and democracy studies with civic engagement through work at community agencies. “Not only did it help me with my vocational experiences, but also allowed me to continue to study full time as an undergraduate student,” she said.

At an internship with Catholic Charities Diocese of Arlington provided Battle with another opportunity for service. There, she learned about immigration policy while assisting families.

Battle also took advantage of many of the student services the university offers, including the Writing Center, career readiness and success coaching.

“With the Writing Center, I was able to create my goal statement, and with my goal statement, I was able to get into the Bachelor's/Accelerated Master's Program within the Schar School, which is highly competitive,” Battle said. She plans to pursue a master of public administration.

She served in Student Government and worked as an access services student assistant for the Ģ��AV Libraries. She also studied in Spain through the Global Gateway scholarship program, living with a host family and improving her Spanish language skills.

She was also a member of Every Nation on Campus, or ENC, a faith-based group.

She encourages current and future Patriots to find clubs that align with their passion and values.

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From rugby pitch to classroom, this Patriot is redefining what success means to him

Colleen Rich — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:53:54 +0000

From rugby pitch to classroom, this Patriot is redefining what success means to him Colleen Rich Mon, 12/08/2025 - 11:53

At 26, Max Dacey enrolled at George Mason Ģ��AV with a singular goal: to earn his degree quickly and better support his family. A former competitive rugby player, he didn’t imagine a traditional college experience. His plan was to take classes, stay focused, “get the paper, and get out,” he said.

However, a year and a half later, the public relations major from Alexandria, Virginia, is graduating with far more than he expected: new confidence, a renewed sense of purpose, and a community that shaped the way he sees himself as a student, coach, and leader.

Fitting in as a contemporary student

Dacey’s decision to enroll was guided by a mentor from his hometown—a George Mason alum who urged him to return to school and reconnect with the university’s rugby program.

Once he entered the classroom, the sense of belonging broadened. “In my first class, a lot of students were above the age of 23 and talked about who they were outside of class,” he said. “I immediately felt like part of a community. The professors cared about my opinion, which was uplifting.”

Over time, Dacey uncovered strengths he hadn’t seen in himself. “I did not know that my critical analysis was as good as it is,” he said. In a rhetoric course last spring, his professor noted how consistently he identified metaphors and underlying connections—insights he hadn’t even realized he was making.

Max Dacey (far right) with the rugby team. Photo provided

Returning to school also gave him something he hadn’t had in his professional life: time to pause, think, and dig deeply into ideas. George Mason’s classroom environment offered the space to stretch intellectually and write about what mattered to him. One of his favorite assignments was a critical analysis of The Lord of the Rings, a series he has loved for years. Approaching it from a scholarly angle, dissecting its metaphors, themes, and world-building, was “challenging and energizing,” he said.

That shift, he realized, was transformative. It wasn’t simply about meeting degree requirements; it was about learning to think hard, ask questions, and make connections.

Coaching, leadership, and community

Throughout his student experience, rugby remained his anchor. Dacey first joined the club sports program as an assistant coach, eventually stepping into the head coach role. Leading teammates close to his age brought complexity along with humor.

“I didn't like being called ‘coach,’” he said with a laugh. “I joked with them, ‘I’m teaching you rugby because that’s what I’m good at. But if you tutor me in a class, I’m not calling you Coach —we’re peers.”

Max Dacey. Photo by Andani Munkaila/Office of Ģ��AV Branding

Coaching is one of his proudest accomplishments and has guided his journey in developing leadership skills. “My time at George Mason as head coach,” he said, “has given me a chance to better myself outside the classroom and lead my peers in the sport I love.”

Charting his own path

As graduation approaches, Dacey is exploring his next steps with intention, looking for opportunities that align with both his public relations training and leadership experience.

Success, to him, is deeply individual. “Success means achieving your goals in a way that you’re proud of,” he said. “Everyone has different aspirations and methods. Accomplishing them in your own way is success.”

His advice to other George Mason students, especially those returning to campus after time away, is grounded in his own experience. “Make as many connections as possible, attend every networking event, and have confidence in yourself,” he said. “The more you put yourself out there, the more confidence you’ll have. You’ll surprise yourself with what you can accomplish.”

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Historic victory for George Mason’s Debate Team

Shayla Brown — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:22:50 +0000

Historic victory for George Mason’s Debate Team  Shayla Brown Thu, 12/04/2025 - 11:22

George Mason Ģ��AV's Debate Team won the prestigious West Point Sword at the United States Military Academy’s 60th annual National Debate Tournament in West Point, New York. 

“This is one of the most iconic awards in college policy debate, and it was the one title George Mason Debate had never won until now,” said Jackie Poapst, director of the Debate Team. “To see our name finally engraved among the champions in the tournament’s 60th year is nothing short of historic. This moment represents six decades of legacy, and the future of excellence at George Mason.”  

The victory in October was one of many for the George Mason varsity team this season.  

George Mason's Debate Team. Photo provided.

George Mason students competed against teams from Harvard, Cornell, James Madison Ģ��AV, Liberty Ģ��AV, Binghamton Ģ��AV, New York Ģ��AV, the Ģ��AV of Rochester, and Suffolk Ģ��AV.

This year’s tournament topic was labor rights, and the George Mason team had several wins on the tournament leaderboard: 

Austin Davis (Communication, sophomore) and Del Gorman (Government and International Politics, sophomore)—1st Overall Seed, undefeated, Tournament Champions 
Ashley Wright (Government and International Politics, junior) and Ben Witkov (Economics, freshman)—2nd Overall Seed, Tournament Co-Champions 
Reet Taxali (Criminology, junior) and Dean Richter (Government and International Politics, senior)—4th Overall Seed, Elite Eight 
Brenda Reyes (Conflict Analysis and Resolution, senior) and Amira Shananier (Computational and Data Science, senior)—7th Overall Seed, Elite Eight

George Mason debaters also triumphed as individual speakers, winning four of the top five speaker awards, with Davis taking first place.   

Students from George Mason's Debate team accepting the West Point Sword. Photo provided.

“I told my coaches last year after losing in the finals that it was ‘Sword or bust’ this season. To win it with Del and to do it for George Mason Debate, it’s a dream realized,” said Davis, who is also a teaching assistant for the writing-intensive course COMM 300 Rhetorical Theory and Criticism. 

Other students placing individually were Witkov at 3rd, Gorman at 4th, and Wright at 5th. 

Reyes also serves as the team’s social events coordinator. 

“We've been going to this tournament every single year, and our director has always been our biggest supporter. I’m so proud of my team's hard work and dedication. It’s an honor to be part of this legacy,” said Reyes, who is in George Mason’s Bachelor’s to Accelerated Master’s Program.  

“My partner Amira and I centered our debate on marginalized populations often neglected in labor rights,” said Reyes, who also serves as vice president of George Mason’s Kappa Alpha Pi Pre-Law and Government Fraternity. “We argued that migrants and undocumented workers are not classified as workers by the [National Labor Relations Act] therefore, do not get access to all labor rights under most generic cases. This makes teams start to question what they can do for migrant labors that are undocumented who we believe are the backbone of America.”  

One of Reyes’ takeaways from this experience is that as a senior, her time on the team is winding down. 

“The moments of working together to achieve our teams' goal of earning the West Point Sword will always be a special core debate memory,” said Reyes. “These memories from supporting our George Mason team no matter the results is what matters the most.” 

George Mason’s performance was described by tournament officials as “one of the most comprehensive team showings in recent memory.”  

“This win means everything to our students,” Poapst said. “They have proven that teamwork, resilience, and belief in each other can quite literally make history.” 

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George Mason dance students perform alongside Limón Dance Company

Shayla Brown — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 17:27:00 +0000

George Mason dance students perform alongside Limón Dance Company Shayla Brown Wed, 12/03/2025 - 12:27

This fall, George Mason Ģ��AV’s dance studios buzzed with excitement as School of Dance students prepared for and performed José Limón’s 1958 original composition Missa Brevis, alongside professional dancers from the Center for the Arts artists in residence Limón Dance Company.

“We’re thrilled to welcome one of the most prestigious modern dance companies to George Mason,” said Victor Adebusola, assistant director of programming and engagement in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. “Their residency gives our School of Dance students the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with incredible professional artists.”

More than 80 George Mason students participated in an intense audition process, led by Limón company members Kurt Douglas and Logan Francis Krueger, and 13 were selected to perform the piece.

Junior dance major Avery Nank said that these auditions can get pretty intense. Nank had previous experience with the dance company, participating in two Limón summer intensive sessions in Colorado and New York City, but auditioning still made her nervous.

“I had previously learned some of the choreography, but I was still really nervous because I wanted it so badly,” she said.

After winning a spot in Missa Brevis, the students then worked with Douglas and Krueger to learn the choreography and prepare for the company’s November Concert Hall performance.

Guest artist residencies are intense learning opportunities and a chance for George Mason dance students to make connections that are invaluable to their careers. After the guest artists choose their cast, a challenging 10-day rehearsal period begins that parallels a professional work schedule. These long days result in a finished work that is performed before a Center for the Arts audience.

School of Dance students rehearsing with Limón Dance Company members. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of Ģ��AV Branding.

Limón Dance Company was founded in 1946 by José Limón and Doris Humphrey. The piece Missa Brevis takes place during World War II and was inspired by Limón’s tour of Europe, organized by the U.S. Department of State. The choreography is meant to reflect resilience and hope amidst devastation.

“When [Limón] went to Poland, he saw how ruined it was, but also how uplifting the people were,” said sophomore dance major Robert Harris. “He wanted to carry that and show the world that even though something can be torn down, the fight against adversity is higher and that you can achieve what you want to with your community.”

The guest artist program lets George Mason dancers learn to perform the piece and gain insights into the lives of professional dancers.

“It was cool to hear about the dancers’ experiences that led them to Limón,” said Harris. “They were very open with us, answering all of our questions and being very patient with us. It was a very eye-opening experience because it showed me that there really is a possibility of me being able to do this in the future.”

“As a young student, it's not often that you get to work with a professional company as a learning opportunity. I’m very thankful knowing that I was able to be a part of this. It was once in a lifetime,” said Harris.

Nank said her biggest takeaway was the possibility of growth when working as a team.

“We can all grow immensely if we're doing it at the same time and we’re doing it together. It just takes patience, discipline, and taking the time to care about the people around you,” she said.

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Study abroad influenced this graduating senior’s worldview

Katarina Benson — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:30:30 +0000

Study abroad influenced this graduating senior’s worldview Katarina Benson Tue, 12/02/2025 - 18:30

Honor College student Cashlyn Bonds said her time at George Mason Ģ��AV has been defined by her passion for justice, human security, and international understanding.

She graduates in December with a BA in Conflict Analysis and Resolution with a concentration in human security and justice, from the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution. She also has minors in intelligence studies and Spanish.

Her commitment to understanding and resolving global conflicts through empathy, research, and collaboration are the driving forces behind her academic success, she said.

Bonds has studied all over the globe. In the summer of 2023, she participated in a study-abroad program in the Balkans, traveling to Bosnia and Croatia through Mason Korea to study the aftermath of the Yugoslav Wars.

Cashlyn Bonds. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of Ģ��AV Branding

Most recently, she completed a semester-long exchange program in Madrid, Spain, where she furthered her cross-cultural understanding and Spanish proficiency.

“The global perspective and meeting people from all around the world has proved to be the most influential thing in my life,” Bonds said of her time at George Mason.

Her commitment to service at George Mason began her first year when she joined George Mason’s chapter of Camp Kesem, for children whose parents have had cancer. She attended the camp as a child growing up in Metairie, Louisiana.

“Knowing that you were part of something as a child and seeing how you can continue the cycle and continue spreading joy fulfills you and fulfills the community,” she said.

She also served as the communications director for the university’s chapter of Pi Gamma Mu, the International Honor Society in Social Sciences.

After graduation, she plans to continue her education and pursue a career in international law and humanitarian advocacy. She hopes to use the knowledge and perspective she gained at George Mason to create meaningful change and promote peace and equity across communities.

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Patriot Profile: Jaylin Lott

Colleen Rich — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 19:31:43 +0000

Patriot Profile: Jaylin Lott Colleen Rich Mon, 12/01/2025 - 14:31

Jaylin Lott

Year: Sophomore

Major: Business with a minor in sport management

Hometown: San Antonio, Texas

The athlete and competitor in her fuel George Mason’s Jaylin Lott’s love for volleyball, but it’s the inner serenity that singing brings her that she treasures away from the court.

Photo by George Mason Athletics

An Almost Idol: Lott experiences the best of both worlds as a 5-foot-5 defensive specialist for the Patriots women’s volleyball team who also moonlights as a singer—one talented enough to have performed the national anthem at numerous NBA games and in George Mason’s EagleBank Arena. Her powerful voice even carried her to the third round of last year’s American Idol tryouts, where she was one of just 15 singers selected from a pool of roughly 300 during an in-person audition in Salt Lake City, Utah.

It’s a Family Affair: Strong vocals run in the family. Lott’s grandmother, Ava, who passed away in 2020, sang in the church choir and remains her inspiration. Lott began singing around age 13 while competing and lettering in both volleyball and track at Clark High School in Texas. Her father, Jason, a former Division I track and field athlete at Texas State Ģ��AV, noticed early on that his daughter was gifted in music as well. “[Sports and singing are] both ways to escape the stress that naturally comes with life,” Lott said. “They’ve each been therapeutic in different ways and at different times. I have a deep love for both.”

At the End of the Day: Lott says it's not uncommon to find her singing along to her karaoke machine to unwind after a long day of classes and practice. Her musical inspirations include Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, and other old-school artists she credits for shaping her style and confidence. “As I’ve gotten older, I look forward to coming home and singing karaoke,” she said. “It’s kind of been my peace, especially after moving so far away from home.”

Taking the Stage: She was just a sophomore in high school when she first sang the national anthem before a San Antonio Spurs game, a moment that felt larger than life. “It was pretty big,” Lott recalled, “I was nervous at first, but it was pretty cool.” She returned to perform at Spurs games many times since, and has even sung for a larger crowd before a Dallas Mavericks game at the American Airlines Center.

Photo provided

Passion on the Court: Lott continues to make an impact on the Patriots team that enjoyed its most successful non-conference season since 2009, surpassing last year’s 11-win total and earning a spot in the Atlantic-10 Conference Tournament that was held in Richmond, Virginia, in November.

“She has such a gift for passing and defense in middle-back,” said George Mason women’s volleyball Head Coach Megan Shifflett Bachmann, “and she’s one of the most naturally talented individuals I’ve had the pleasure to coach in that position.”

Bachmann first learned of Lott’s musical talent during recruiting and was immediately impressed. “We’re always hoping to hear even more from her, without putting too much pressure around it,” Shifflett Bachmann said, “It’s a joy every time I overhear her singing to herself in the hallway or along with the music at practice.”

Singing Her Own Song: Singing is more than a hobby for Lott, it’s a passion she hopes to turn into a career. Lott continues to reach out to NBA teams in the region and in her hometown about national anthem gigs while also eyeing possible future auditions on The Voice. Lott also wrote songs for fun throughout middle and high school, and she has long imagined taking the next step—writing music professionally and eventually recording her own music in a studio. Finding time between school and volleyball has been tough, but she’s determined. “I want to put in the work it takes to have people one day hear my music,” she said. “It’s a peaceful thing for me to do, and it carries my grandmother’s legacy, too.”

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Congressional internships teach Mason LIFE students independence, resume skills

Sarah Holland — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 19:26:47 +0000

Congressional internships teach Mason LIFE students independence, resume skills Sarah Holland Mon, 12/01/2025 - 14:26

George Mason Ģ��AV knows the value of hands-on experience in the workplace for all students. An internship can lead to the experience of a lifetime. And that includes Mason LIFE students who are interning on Capitol Hill.

Established by former Representative Gregg Harper in 2010, the Gregg and Livingston Harper Congressional Internship Program for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities matches Mason LIFE students with House and Senate congressional office internships. Students start their internships in their second year and continue them through completion of the program.

“We’re helping them gain the skills needed to seek a fulfilling career when graduating from the program,” explained Linn Jorgenson, director of Mason LIFE, a four-year nondegree educational transition program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. One of Mason LIFE’s core curriculum requirements that supports this development is the internship.

“We’re helping them learn what they like and don’t like, how to make decisions on their own, and developing their ability to advocate for themselves,” Jorgenson added.

This fall, eight Mason LIFE students interned across 16 different congressional offices on Capitol Hill.

“My favorite part is getting to see what happens behind the scenes of the government,” said Madison Gulley, a third-year Mason LIFE student and one of the congressional interns.

Mason LIFE students and peer support staff in Washington, D.C. Back row: Nehal Gundawar, Ankit Borle, Shane Sorensen, and Nick Ortega. Front row: Amar Malik, Max Gulley, Noah Coon, Shreya Adusumilli, Sofia Puritano, Eli Zhou, Madison Shaw, Leah McDuffie, Vrushali Vijay Patil, and Varsha Ponnaganti. Not pictured: Aryaa Bhole and Riya Stanly.

Every Friday, Mason LIFE students and their peer support staff—George Mason students who travel with the students to their workplaces to provide support and guidance—take the Metro into Washington, D.C., complete their internship assignments for the day for their two congressional offices, eat lunch, and take the Metro back to Fairfax. Students in the program tackle a variety of work for their assigned congressional offices: answering phones, researching bills, delivering mail, giving tours, and doing data entry, to name a few.

“The students working on the Hill are part of a team, completing work that is essential and meaningful to all parties involved,” emphasized Jorgenson.

“When our students come to their internships, our peer support staff are there to facilitate inclusion and support students in successfully completing tasks,” said Melissa Chabot, employment and community involvement coordinator for Mason LIFE. “So not only are these necessary jobs done, you know they’ll be done well.”

Through the internship program, Mason LIFE students learn independence, confidence, and social and cultural competencies; they build valuable resume skills; and they explore their interests to see if they’re the right fit for a long-term career. And for the peer support staff, the benefits are just as important.

Ankit Borle, one of the newer peer support staff, is working toward a master’s in data analytics engineering. “I’ve learned to listen actively, communicate clearly, and tailor support so people can be independent—skills that build trust with teammates, clients, and stakeholders...Most importantly, I’m taking forward an inclusive mindset—making sure every voice is heard—which will make me a stronger colleague and leader wherever I work,” Borle said.

Madison Shaw, a graduate student in the Master of Social Work Program, has worked with Mason LIFE for three years. “It can be so important to focus on abilities versus disabilities. Each student carries so many strengths within themselves and has a lot to offer,” she said.

There’s a similar benefit to the employer. “Mason LIFE students bring an important perspective to the office,” said Chabot. “Employers get an opportunity to reflect on their inclusivity. What are the employers doing that helps everyone be successful, and where can they improve?”

And the joy of watching their fellow students succeed is perhaps the greatest reward of all.

Peer coach Nehal Gundawar, a master’s student in computer science, works with one of the Capitol Hill interns. “In the beginning, they [the Mason LIFE student] were nervous about interacting with staff and unsure how to approach tasks without guidance...after a few weeks they began initiating tasks on their own and even asked for additional responsibilities. Their supervisor complimented their improvements,” he said. “Watching them grow into a more confident and independent employee was incredibly rewarding.”

The congressional interns see the changes in themselves as well.

“Mason LIFE helps me with the skills that are required to be an independent man,” said Amar Mailk, a third-year student.

“Mason LIFE has changed my life,” said Aryaa Bhole, a second-year student. “Because of the lessons and skills, I know to stand out and inspire others and to lift them with my voice.”

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Three Minute Thesis Competition showcases doctoral research

Shayla Brown — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 15:40:07 +0000

Three Minute Thesis Competition showcases doctoral research Shayla Brown Mon, 12/01/2025 - 10:40

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Rania Zaied, a fourth-year PhD student in George Mason Ģ��AV’s Department of Communication, has won first-place at the annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, an engaging event that showcases the innovative research of doctoral candidates. She will advance to the 2026 regional competition in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, hosted by the Council of Southern Graduate Schools. 

3MT first place winner Rania Zaied (left) with Stephanie Bluth. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of Ģ��AV Branding.

The competition took place on November 7, 2025, and was organized by the Graduate Division of the Provost’s Office. The competition invites PhD students from various schools and colleges within the university to present their research in a concise and compelling format. 

Students from the College of Education and Human Development, College of Engineering and Computing, College of Humanities and Social Science, College of Public Health, and College of Science participated, presenting their chosen research topics with a single slide and a strict three-minute time limit. A panel of eight judges evaluated the presentations. 

This year, the doctoral candidates explored a diverse range of topics, including the integration of Gen-AI in K-12 classrooms and novel approaches to combating bacteria and biofilms. The competition concluded with the following winners: 

First Place: Rania Zaied (CHSS): “Decoding the Joke: Muslim Representations in Comedy and Their Impact on Internalized Anti-Muslim Racism.” 
Second Place: Mahmood Almosuli (COS): “Designer Phage: The Way to Beat Bacteria and Biofilms.” 
Third Place: Rooshna Mohsin (CPH): “Balancing the Risks: Dietary and Social Predictors of PFAs Exposure and Associated Health Outcomes in Hispanic Children.” 
People’s Choice: Oakley Thomas Hill (Carter School): “The Justice Languages of America.”

The winners of the 3MT competition. Photo by Eduardo Macedo/Office of Ģ��AV Branding.

Zaied had previously competed in a 3MT competition at James Madison Ģ��AV during her master’s studies and found it a rewarding experience.  

“It truly helped me share my research clearly with any audience in a way that was simple, and to the point, regardless of their background. So, I really wanted to do it again for my doctoral dissertation, and train myself to talk about my research simply and concisely,” Zaied explained. 

Zaied is conducting a qualitative study involving online interviews with Muslim audiences, utilizing thematic analysis to identify and interpret recurring themes in participants' experiences.

She attributes much of her success to the constructive feedback received from various resources at George Mason, including workshops led by Graduate Professional and Career Development Program Coordinator Alyssa Bivins, preliminary round feedback from judges, and consultations with her mentor Melissa Broeckelman-Post and Communication Center staff.

“I also attended a practice session with Dr. Bivins and Makayla Johnson, who provided valuable feedback regarding clarity for a general audience, body language, and word choices in my speech,” said Zaied, who has a concentration in strategic communications.

With the support of George Mason’s resources, Zaied polished her presentation through continuous practice and refinement.  

“Some feedback might have been small tweaks here and there, but all of it together truly brought my speech a long way from where it had started and really made a huge difference,” she said.  

“I’m very excited to move forward to the regional competition and represent George Mason Ģ��AV there,” she said. 

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The 2025 Family of the Year enjoys life on campus

Katarina Benson — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:38:59 +0000

The 2025 Family of the Year enjoys life on campus Katarina Benson Tue, 11/25/2025 - 11:38

The Dr. Alan and Sally Merten Family of the Year Award honors the essential role families play in supporting their students at George Mason Ģ��AV. Students nominate their families, and the Family of the Year Award is announced at Family Weekend in the fall. The Choi family is the 14th Family of the Year recipient.

Eun Kyung (EK) Choi is a full-time graduate student in the Inclusive Early Childhood Education Program in the College of Education and Human Development—and a dedicated student parent.

The Choi family is the 2025 Family of the Year. Photo by Evan Cantwell/Office of Ģ��AV Branding

Her journey to George Mason began when she and her husband moved to the United States after he was posted to the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Washington, D.C., by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With this major transition came an opportunity: Choi chose to pursue a teaching license, hoping to one day work in international schools around the world.

But after welcoming their baby, Choi found herself unsure how she could continue her master’s program. “I wasn’t sure how I could finish my master’s degree,” she recalled.

That’s when her husband made a pivotal decision: He took a year of parental leave to care for their baby, ensuring Choi could fully focus on her studies. His support made all the difference. Choi successfully completed the teacher certification exams required for her internships and continues to excel in her program.

“Without his support, it would not have been easy to take my current classes or prepare for my internship next semester,” she said.

The Choi family lives in Masonvale on Mason’s Fairfax Campus, where they embrace the vibrant local community. They enjoy long walks to Old Town Fairfax—often stopping by the Fairfax Regional Library or treating themselves at De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches when they don’t feel like cooking. On campus, they frequent Southside and Ike’s, and Choi keeps an eye on Mason360 for fun family-friendly events.

“Being part of the George Mason community as both a student and a mom has been a meaningful journey,” Choi shared. “I hope my story encourages other students who are also balancing school and family life.”

Her advice for fellow students balancing family and school is:

Take Care of Your Health: “Parenting is a whole new world. No matter how much support you have, it takes energy. I used to stay up finishing work all night and start work early in the morning, and that was my joy. But I can’t do that anymore I’ve learned to take care of my body and rest when I can. This season of life is different, but it’s precious and full of gratitude.”

Share the Responsibilities: “Parenting is not a solo journey. My husband’s and family’s support has made it possible for me to continue my studies. I also try to respect my husband’s personal time, like going to the gym or seeing friends. It helps us both.”

Use the System: “In my case, my husband was able to take one year of paid parental leave, which made this balance possible. In Korea, parents can usually take one year of paid leave plus up to two additional years of unpaid leave. Because this system was so familiar to me, I didn’t fully realize how meaningful it was. However, after talking with Colleen Vesely, my Engaging Families of Diverse Learners professor, I truly came to appreciate not only the existence of this system but also the supportive environment that allows us to use it.”

Find a Supportive Community: “I truly appreciate the welcoming community at George Mason. My professors and classmates have supported me during pregnancy, childbirth, and this parenting season. Special thanks to Professor Bweikia Steen for creating a warm and inclusive class, to Professor Carly Fisher-Maltese for her kindness during my delivery time, and to my friend Jialin for her care before and after birth. Last but not least, thank you to my academic advisor, Kayla Turner, and internship coordinator, Amanda Davis, for constantly checking on me and handling my situations. Families of the Korean Embassy and friends from the diplomatic community have also been so kind. They brought food, took me on little trips to Baltimore, and even bought my favorite bingsoo from Soricha Tea and Theater. I’ve truly felt cared for.”

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Family of the Year

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