School of Integrative Studies Outstanding Graduate School of Integrative Studies

Kendall is from Chesapeake, VA, and she is majoring in Human Development & Family Science, with a minor in Nonprofit Studies. 

What has been your favorite HDFS/INTS course, and why?

My favorite class was definitely Parent-Child Relations (INTS 321). It really stuck with me because we didn’t just learn about parenting styles and child development—we explored how culture, history, and societal influences shape the way families function through personal dynamics. It was one of those rare classes where I could connect academic concepts to real-life situations, especially in the kind of work I want to do as a Marriage and Family Therapist.

What made the class especially meaningful was how often I found myself applying what I learned outside of the classroom. Whether it was during my internship, in casual conversations, or just observing the ways parents interact with their kids in public spaces, I started noticing patterns and dynamics I hadn’t paid attention to before. It sharpened my perspective, helped me better understand the roots of certain behaviors, and deepened my empathy for families navigating complex challenges. It really affirmed my passion for working in this field and gave me a new lens to see people through.

What are you the proudest of during your time here at Mason? 

During my time at Mason, student involvement has been one of the most transformative parts of my experience. It helped shape who I am both personally and professionally. Being an active member of campus organizations gave me the space to explore my passions, form lasting connections, and deepen my sense of purpose beyond the classroom.

For two of my three years at Mason, I danced with Emerald Desires, where I helped bring culture, school spirit, and energy to campus events alongside the Green Machine Pep Band. That community was a source of pride and creativity for me—and being named “Most Spirited” made it all the more special. I also found deep meaning through my involvement in the ASL Club. Even though I wasn’t able to continue formal ASL courses, my experience in the ASL department had a lasting impact on me. I gained communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and a new sense of discipline, all of which have influenced my career goals in accessibility and advocacy. My time in the Deaf community inspired me to begin organizing a mental health awareness event focused on increasing access for Deaf individuals—a project I’m still passionate about pursuing.

Outside of student life, my internship with Northern Virginia Family Services (NVFS) was truly life-changing. Through the Intervention, Prevention, and Education (IPE) program, I worked hands-on with families and youth affected by systemic barriers. The most powerful moment for me was seeing a client gain confidence and begin imagining a healthier future for themselves. That experience not only reaffirmed my path in the human services field but also opened new doors—I’ve since started working with a local community leader to co-create a mental health workshop for at-risk youth, combining everything I’ve learned at Mason in a meaningful, real-world way.

I’ve also been honored to receive recognitions like Outstanding Senior, Outstanding Student in HDFS, and SIS Senior—each milestone reminding me of the growth, dedication, and passion I’ve poured into my time here.

All of these moments, from the classroom to the community, have made my Mason journey unforgettable. I’m proud of the impact I’ve made, and I’m excited to carry this foundation with me as I continue working to uplift and support others.
 

Dylan is from Manassas, VA, and is majoring in the Bachelor of Individualized Study with a concentration in International Political Economy.

What has been your favorite BIS course, and why?
It’s a difficult choice between BIS 301 and BIS 490. BIS 301 was important because it helped me realize it’s okay to come back to school as an adult, that I belong here, and that I can do it. It helped me to grow as a student and as a person. BIS 490 has also been really wonderful and important because it pushed me to really focus on my goals for after graduation and take real steps toward the career I want. That course helped me land job offers and build a strong plan for my future, so it made a huge impact on me.

What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at Mason?
I’m most proud of finishing my degree and setting myself up for the next chapter of my life. Graduating from college has been a lifelong goal of mine, and there’s been a lot of hard to make it happen. Taking classes while in the Navy and then coming back to school after coming home has been challenging but ultimately very rewarding. This experience changed how I see myself and helped me believe I can really live up to my potential. Winning the BIS Outstanding Graduate award on top of that has just made everything even more meaningful and wonderful!

Kira Lindenhäll is from Fairfax, VA, and is majoring in Environmental and Sustainability Studies with a Concentration in Climate Change and Society, and a Minor in Global Affairs. 

What has been your favorite EVSS/INTS course, and why?

One of my biggest takeaways was from my environmental justice class, INTS 334. I realized how deeply environmental issues are tied to social and racial injustices. I was especially surprised by how often policies meant to protect the environment, like conservation efforts, have harmed Indigenous communities by displacing them from their ancestral lands. This class made me see that environmental justice isn’t just about protecting nature—it’s about ensuring that all people, regardless of race or income, have equal access to clean air, water, and land. 

What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at Mason?

Some of my most memorable moments at Mason were at the different cultural events. For example, the international cafes (OIPS), Nowruz Gala (GMU Persian Club), and Garba (ISA). I loved being able to experience different cultural traditions with my peers and try all of the delicious foods. I am so glad that Mason is home to a vast group of people from all over the world and that we can all come together to celebrate those differences.