Ciera Dykstra is a first-generation student from Alaska who grew up in the western United States. They have worked abroad in West Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Asia. They are the co-founder of The Serenity Project and Youth International Leadership Initiative non-profit groups. They are a recipient of the Thomas R. Pickering Fellowship, Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship and Critical Language Scholarship. Ciera’s languages include French and Arabic. Ciera’s languages include French and Arabic. When they are not studying and working you can find Ciera crocheting, rock climbing, dancing (salsa and swing), and trying new recipes from around the world.

"I chose the MSFS program to strengthen my background in diplomacy and technology in foreign affairs. I have spent my educational and professional background in the Western US and found this to be an incredible opportunity to gain experience in the nation’s capital. I am thrilled to collaborate with a diverse group of my peers who are passionate about leading the world in the 21st century through empathic diplomacy."

 

Publications

Dykstra, C. (2021). Child's Play: Insight into the Similarities and Differences Between COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS in the LBGTQ+ Community. The International Affairs Journal, 1(1). Read it here. 

Dykstra, C. (2021). Time for School: Who has COVID-19 Left Impacted By National School Closures? Data in Politics Undergraduate Journal, 2. Read it here.