Rania Bouagja

How has the dual degree shaped your academic and professional interests so far?

The political science element of my dual degree program has helped me figure out what I actually care about most. In our Comparative Politics class, for example, I realized that I’m drawn to the idea of improving how countries are run, especially when change is needed. 

How has your recent immersion trip to Athens deepened your understanding of democratic systems and their relevance today?

An important aspect of the program so far has been the immersive overseas trip to Greece, which included visits to iconic cultural landmarks such as the Acropolis and Delphi, as well as meetings with political and policy institutions. 

This combination of history and contemporary politics pretty much sums up what we do in political science. In the first semester, for example, we studied Foundations of Political Thought with Professor Strom-Olsen. This helped shape our understanding of how political thought came to be, from Plato’s ideal state to learning about the founding fathers of major political branches. Then, in the Introduction to Political Science class with Professor Židek, we explored current political ideologies and challenges.  

So the trip to Greece felt like a continuation of our learning, but with a focus on the birthplace of democracy. It’s helped me broaden my understanding of democracy, how it came to be in Greece and that it was a long process to reach this point. 

What insights did your meetings with various actors give you about politics and policymaking in practice?

During the trip, we met representatives from the European Commission’s representation in Greece, political leaders and policy experts. Hearing from these experts, who have worked in government and tackled complex issues facing the EU and Greece, was invaluable.  

Meeting Alexis Tsipras, the former prime minister who led Greece during the country’s economic crisis, was a particular highlight. I learned firsthand about the challenges of managing a country in turmoil and maintaining morale under immense pressure. This experience showed me that politics goes beyond policy and theory; it’s about sustaining institutions and ensuring they truly respond to citizens’ needs.