IS BA Student Testimonials
Learn more about the Matsunaga Institute for Peace and the IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution.
What was your fondest memory at the Matsunaga Institute?
All the fruitful conversations I have had with classmates and Professors about social justice, activism, and nurturing solidarity!
Anna Chua, 2021
BA in Psychology; IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution [concentration: Social and Environmental Justice]
What was your fondest memory at the Matsunaga Institute?
The entirety of my internship course (PACE 495 “Practicum”). It was a very unique aspect of the program. I really enjoyed the opportunity to go out into the community and provide assistance to some very meaningful programs.
Olivia Eaton, 2020
BA in Korean; IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution [concentration: International Law and Human Rights]; Peace Corps Prep Certificate
What was your fondest memory at the Matsunaga Institute?
The PACE 450 “Protest Under Occupation” with Professor Umi Perkins was the first course I took in the program. This course spurred class discussions that inspired me to continue studying in the Peace and Conflict Resolution discipline and to pursue a degree in the field.
Emiko George, 2022
IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution [concentration: Learning and Teaching Peace]
What was your fondest memory at the Matsunaga Institute?
Being surrounded by like-minded people who wanted to make a change in this world for the better.
Isabella Herron, 2022
BA in Communications; IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution; Peace Corps Prep Certificate
What was your fondest memory at the Matsunaga Institute?
Meeting all the fantastic professors that I had the chance to learn from. My favorite course was negotiation (PACE 429 “Negotiation”) and all the interesting projects we had in that class. I am and will always be grateful to have received my education from the Matsunaga Institute for Peace.
Vendela Lindahl, 2020
BA in Psychology; IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution [concentration: Civil Rights Movement]
What was your fondest memory at the Matsunaga Institute?
Being able to hear from my classmates (from all of my different classes) their vision of a better future, and where we can effectuate positive change. That has given me the motivation and hope to continue to find ways to improve the status quo, whilst involving as many stakeholders as possible.
Cindy Ng, 2021
BA in Political Science; IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution [concentration: US-AS Relations]
What was your fondest memory at the Matsunaga Institute?
The instructors who were very accommodating and understanding during the COVID-19 pandemic as I started this degree in 2020. Another fond memory was learning about various styles of leadership and conflict resolution techniques which have been significantly useful for my profession.
Thanathep “Justin” Nguyen, 2021
BA in Sociology; IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution; Peace Corps Prep Certificate
What was your fondest memory at the Matsunaga Institute?
Each moment spent with our Kumu (teachers), amazing people, and events within the Matsunaga Institute for Peace.
Mari Stasky, 2020
IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution [concentration: Peace in Society]
What was your fondest memory at the Matsunaga Institute?
At the graduation ceremony (2019 Matsunaga Institute Awards and Recognition Reception). I was able to volunteer (as part of the internship, PACE 495 “Practicum”), where I was able to help set up the event, and then I was fortunate enough to attend the event. Being able to check everybody in and watch it all unfold. The speakers were amazing, families had a great time, and it made me excited for my own graduation.
Emily Whitfield, 2020
IS BA in Peace and Conflict Resolution [concentration: Family Mediation & Conflict Resolution]