SAIS' Network Has No Parallel
Name: Dexter Maryland
Home Country: United States of America
Degree: Master of Arts International Relations (MAIR)
Scholarship: Thomas R. Pickering Fellow
Before joining the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), what were you doing?
Before joining SAIS, I attended Texas Southern University (TSU), where I got my bachelor’s in political science and journalism. While there I became active in civic engagement, joining various campaigns in the Houston area and working with the Democratic National Committee on increasing voter engagement. I also began my leadership journey at TSU, becoming student government association president.Choosing SAIS has been one of the best decisions I have ever made, not just because of the prestigious education but also because of the community. SAIS’ network has no parallel.
What led you to Johns Hopkins SAIS?
Before becoming a Thomas R. Pickering fellow, I learned about Johns Hopkins SAIS through a virtual graduate fair. In my research, the thing that stuck out to me most about SAIS was its innovative academic curriculum. As a graduate student, I could choose both a functional focus area and a regional focus area and it felt like I was truly able to tailor my academics to my professional interests.Months later, the dean of my undergrad told me, “If you want to excel in the field of international relations, SAIS is the only choice.” Choosing SAIS has been one of the best decisions I have ever made, not just because of the prestigious education but also because of the community. SAIS’ network has no parallel.
What has been your favorite experience at SAIS and why?
Two of my favorite experiences: The Annual Cherry Blossom Ball and embassy visits.The Cherry Blossom Ball because it was very cool to see everyone step outside of the academic space to just socialize and have fun. The embassy visits are also a favorite because it is such a unique opportunity to have conversations and connect with people from all over the world. On my most recent visit, I went to the Rwanda Embassy.
What do you plan on pursuing after graduation?
As a Pickering fellow, I will be entering the foreign service as a U.S. diplomat after graduation. I hope to enter the political officer track, where I would host political events and negotiate and communicate with foreign government officials. I also see myself practicing law in the future, focusing on international business and human rights law.What is one piece of advice you would give to students in the process of choosing graduate schools?
Choose the place that fits you. You want to be somewhere where you find a community that will support you through the entirety of your journey — in the classroom and beyond. When I started my graduate school search process, I made it a point to look at how innovative the curriculum of my top schools were and which schools reflected the type of community I wanted to be a part of and SAIS was the perfect fit.
What is your favorite SAIS tradition?
I’d have to say the International Taste of SAIS event, because it highlights the diverse cultures that exist at the school and gives us the opportunity to share in each other’s food, music, and dancing.If you are looking to learn more about what it's like to be a current student at Johns Hopkins SAIS, we encourage you to schedule a virtual appointment with one of our Admissions Fellows.
Enjoyed reading Dexter's experience? Learn more about our Master of Arts in International Relations.
Back to Student Stories