BA in Global Affairs

Joey Siu, 2025

Major: BA in global affairs with a concentration in global governance  

Hometowns: Hong Kong and Raleigh, North Carolina  

Plans after graduation: Siu plans to continue her full-time job at an international development nonprofit in Washington, D.C., while continuing her human rights activism. Her next step is to attend graduate school to further my expertise in human rights, democracy, and social movements. 

Most impactful course: GLOA 396 (Global Revolutions & Politics) with Professor Byunghwan Ben Son. “As an activist, I frequently encounter revolutions and social movements in real life, but I rarely get the chance to study them from an academic perspective. This course provided me with that valuable opportunity.” 

Unconventional can be your path 

Born in North Carolina, Siu grew up in Hong Kong before having to flee halfway through college due to her human rights activism. She found herself back in the United States, “technically in ‘exile,’” and restarting her studies. Siu, 24, said arriving at George Mason and finding other non-traditional or “unconventional” paths—transfer students, veterans, parents, and first-generation college students—was comforting and reassured her about her path. “I learned one of George Mason’s most powerful lessons: growth doesn’t follow a schedule, and it looks different for everyone,” she said. “So, I want to share with other students that: We all grow at different speeds, in different directions, through different challenges. So, if you ever felt behind, out of place, or uncertain, remember to embrace your pace. The path you’re on—however winding—is still yours. It’s never too late to begin again, and you’re never too old to grow and dream.”