Alumni dreams #253

Angelica Catini chose the BA in International Studies because of its broad and holistic approach to international relations. Unsure of her exact career path but eager to explore global affairs, BA IS provided her with foundational knowledge and invaluable experiences that helped her grow both academically and personally. Coming from a multicultural background—Italian and Mexican—she was particularly excited to study Latin America as her regional focus, as it allowed her to connect more deeply with her Mexican heritage.

Her passion for Latin America and social justice was reflected in her thesis, “A Timeless Weapon of Repression – Censorship in Traditional Media Under Maduro: The Role of Television in Venezuela Since 2013.” This research examined the significance of censorship in Venezuela’s media landscape, analyzing how different television channels perpetuate state control. Angelica was deeply invested in this topic, as it shed light on the ongoing human rights violations in the country. Writing her thesis was a powerful experience, reinforcing her interest in media, politics, and advocacy.

During her studies, Angelica also pursued an internship at the Mexican Embassy in the Netherlands, specifically in the Consular Section. She considers this one of the most transformative experiences of her life, as it confirmed her interest in diplomatic work. The experience was both inspiring and eye-opening, and one day, she hopes to return to work in an embassy setting.

Reflecting on her time at BA IS, Angelica highlights teamwork and critical thinking as the most valuable skills she gained. These abilities have proven essential in both academic and professional settings, preparing her for a career in international affairs.

After graduating, Angelica decided to continue her education and is currently pursuing a Master’s in International Relations at Leiden University, specializing in Global Conflict in the Modern Era. Her decision was influenced by the minor she took in Global Affairs during her bachelor’s, which sparked her interest in security, terrorism, and counterterrorism. In the future, she hopes to work for an NGO or international organization focused on security and counterterrorism.

Her advice to BA IS students is simple: make friends! As an international student, she found that friendships were essential in creating a support system and making the experience truly special. She also encourages students to enjoy the process, take advantage of the amazing professors, and engage with like-minded peers.

A fantastic journey, Angelica—we look forward to see where you will go next!