<p>Senior Diplomat at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs Jawaher Abdulla represents her country on the international stage, fostering cooperation and dialogue across borders. Her work focuses on diplomacy and international relations, a field where she continues to apply the analytical and cross-cultural skills honed as an <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-global-affairs.html">MS in Global Affairs</a> student at the Center for Global Affairs (CGA).</p>
<p>Abdulla credits her time at CGA for expanding her understanding of politics, gender, and international relations, stating, “I learned more about politics and international relations with a focus on gender—which is still a topic as relevant as ever."</p>
<p>Initially drawn to multiple fields, she ultimately found her passion in gender studies, a decision that continues to shape her worldview and diplomatic approach. “I’m proud of completing a tough program, especially since I changed my major during my master’s due to multiple interests, but eventually returned to CGA to study gender—a topic I remain very interested in.”</p>
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My favorite memories were the GFIs [Global Field Intensives] I did to Costa Rica, Panama, and then in Holland, Serbia, and Bosnia, which were very interesting, immersive experiences to learn about global issues up close."
Global Field Intensives: Learning Beyond the Classroom
<p>Some of Abdulla's most memorable experiences at NYU came through <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/experience/how-youll-learn/study-globally/upcoming-global-field-intensives.html">Global Field Intensives (GFIs)</a>—trips that bring classroom theory to life in international settings. “My favorite memories were the GFIs I did to Costa Rica, Panama, and then in Holland, Serbia, and Bosnia, which were very interesting, immersive experiences to learn about global issues up close,” she reflects. These experiences offered a rare opportunity to engage directly with local communities, policymakers, and global institutions while exploring complex topics such as development, conflict, and cultural resilience.</p>
<p>Since graduating, Abdulla's career has continued its upward trajectory. Among her proudest accomplishments is receiving the Excellent Diplomat Award, presented by His Highness the Foreign Minister of the UAE—a testament to her dedication, professionalism, and impact in the field. With a firm belief in continuous learning and cross-cultural engagement, Abdulla exemplifies the spirit of global citizenship that CGA programs strive to cultivate.</p>