Meet Our Alumni
The Department of Global Studies is proud of the accomplishments of its alumni, who are making meaningful contributions in government, international organizations, nonprofit leadership, business, education, and many other fields. Their experiences demonstrate the value of a Global Studies education and the many paths our graduates pursue after earning their degree.
Below, we highlight alumni who are creating positive change in their communities and around the world.
Vaishalee Chaudhary
Graduation Year: 2022
Degree: B.A. Political Science, Minor in International Studies
Current Position: Law Clerk, U.S. District Court for the Central District of California
Vaishalee Chaudhary is a Law Clerk for the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. She earned her bachelor's degree in Political Science with a minor in International Studies from California State University, Long Beach in 2022.
Joining the IST department was one of the best decisions I made in college. Each professor is incredibly invested in their students' lives and success. Even years after graduating, I stay in touch with my mentor, Dr. Walters, who continues to provide invaluable guidance and support at every major turn. I'm forever grateful for the tremendous impact the IST department had on my studies and career.
Asjia Garner
Graduation Year: 2017
Current Position: Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Motion Picture Association
Asjia Garner is the Director of Communications and Public Affairs for the Motion Picture Association, where she manages strategic messaging for public policy advocacy supporting the global film, television, and streaming industry. Previously, she served in global public affairs roles at the White House and the U.S. Department of State during the Biden–Harris Administration. She also led government and diplomatic relations in Seattle for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The interdisciplinary program and professional development through ºÚÁÏÍø's Global Studies Department is unmatched. From the dedicated and globally diverse professors to my studies and work abroad in Morocco, I graduated with real experience under my belt, prepared to tackle complex issues, and inspired to meaningfully contribute to the world.
Andre Nicola
Graduation Year: 2021
Current Position: Program Coordinator, Latin America, ORF America
Andre Nicola's career has focused on international program implementation, primarily supporting U.S. government initiatives as well as projects funded by other government partners and private donors. Much of his work has been at the intersection of democracy and climate, with a regional focus on Latin America. More recently, he transitioned into think tank work, where he focuses on policy research, programming, and international convenings.
The Global Studies Department played a tremendous role in shaping both my academic and professional journey. Courses on international development provided a strong foundation for understanding how the development sector operates and helped me explore potential career paths within the field. The department also gave me the opportunity to develop a broader understanding of global issues and encouraged me to pursue an internationally focused career.
Zachary C. Teeter
Current Position: Plan International USA
Zachary C. Teeter works at Plan International USA, an international development and humanitarian organization that works with children, especially girls, to create a more just and equal world. His work focuses on a national youth leadership and policy advocacy program that advances gender equity and youth engagement.
The Global Studies Department at ºÚÁÏÍø is where I was challenged to look deeper into the root causes of inequality, pushed to understand the systemic injustices our global societies are facing, and was able to connect with passionate professors who have guided my professional and academic life since.
