Read about this month’s International Studies Alumni Spotlight. Alumni were asked to share how their International Studies major or minor has influenced their path after graduating from the University of Michigan.
November 2023 - Bryna Worner
BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation) ‘13
Hometown: Oak Park, IL
University of Michigan Affiliations: Honor Society for International Studies: Sigma Iota Rho (SIR), Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, Ronald McDonald House Charities Ann Arbor, DoRak (Do Random Acts of Kindness), Spanish Club, K-Grams (Kids' Programs), Language Exchange Club, Dance Marathon at the University of Michigan
“The Program in International and Comparative Studies (PICS) served as a launching pad to my career and was the gateway that opened my eyes to the world. Through the International Studies major, I studied the issue of International Security, Norms and Cooperation and looked at this topic through the lenses of International Studies, Political Science, Sociology, Anthropology, Environment, and History. Learning about complex global issues from an interdisciplinary perspective helped me hone advanced skills of deep critical thinking, problem solving, cultural competency, clear communication, and teamwork that have served me well in my career path.
What I loved about my PICS educational experience is that there were so many different paths I could pursue after graduation. I spent time working on a global corporate affairs team, in public relations, and in the nonprofit sector. I realized that I thrived when I was able to work on student initiative projects which led me to pursue my current higher education career at the University of Michigan.
Now as an Undergraduate Academic Advisor for International Studies and for other International Institute undergraduate academic programs, I am able to combine my passion for global issues and student affairs together. Working with the students gives me a great sense of drive and purpose. Constructing an interdisciplinary curriculum for 500+ undergraduate students can take a lot of individualized attention, but our students are courageous, ambitious, and creative. I strive to work with each student holistically and empower them with knowledge and tools to help them define their own individualized definition of success. I love playing a part in helping advise the next generation of global citizens.
I have been admitted to the University of Michigan School of Education Master of Arts in Higher Education program focusing on Higher Education Management and Organizations. I plan to begin my graduate studies next semester as I continue to progress in my higher education career."
