Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies

Elham Mohaba, 2025

I began my journey at George Mason as an undergraduate studying government and international politics before continuing into the MAIS program in social justice and human rights through the bachelor's to accelerated master's pathway. While pursuing my degree, I also built my career in the education nonprofit sector and currently work at the Surge Institute, where I support leadership development for leaders of color in education.

What was your specific area of study and how did you choose it? 

I pursued the interdisciplinary studies program through the bachelor's to accelerated master's pathway after an incredible undergraduate experience studying government and international politics. I was drawn to the program’s flexibility, which allowed me to take courses outside my primary field and develop the creative thinking, adaptability, and broad perspective essential for today’s world. Within the program, I chose the social justice and human rights concentration because of my deep commitment to serving marginalized communities, fostering community resilience, and challenging systemic inequities. This concentration equipped me with the tools to transform my passion for liberation and justice into impactful action. 

For my graduate project, titled "Trauma in the Ivory Tower: Black Muslim Women’s Experiences in Higher Education in the United States," I explored how racism, Islamophobia, and gender discrimination intersect to create mental, emotional, and academic trauma for Black Muslim women. My work highlights the need for trauma-informed, healing-centered practices in higher education, and centers around the development of a digital healing hub focused on curriculum, connection, community, care, and cultivation to better support Black Muslim women’s well-being and success. 

How did your academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences impact you? 

My academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences had a profound impact on both my personal growth and professional aspirations. The interdisciplinary approach encouraged me to think critically, engage with complex social issues from multiple perspectives, and deepen my commitment to social justice. Through my coursework, supportive mentorship, and opportunities for research and community engagement, I gained the skills to analyze systemic inequities and advocate for meaningful change. My time here not only sharpened my academic abilities but also affirmed my passion for using education as a tool for liberation and healing. 

Which accomplishments during your time at George Mason are you most proud of? 

One of my most significant accomplishments was receiving the MAIS Celebration of Scholarship Award for my graduate project. I am also incredibly proud of using my academic journey to deepen my leadership in national nonprofit spaces, where I have blended scholarship and advocacy to drive meaningful change beyond the classroom. 

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your George Mason career? 

Absolutely! Professor Wendi Manuel-Scott and Professor Shayna Maskell have both been incredibly transformative in my journey at George Mason. Their guidance and support have been invaluable in shaping my academic and professional path. I am fortunate to have had them both serve on my committee for my graduate project, as their mentorship continues to inspire and challenge me in meaningful ways. 

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students? 

One of the most important lessons I learned during my graduate experience was to view my graduate project not simply as a means to an end, but as a real opportunity to explore something deeply meaningful to me. To incoming graduate students, my most important piece of advice would be to approach your thesis or project with curiosity, passion, and intentionality. Choose a topic that genuinely moves you—something you’re excited to spend time with, wrestle with, and grow through. Don’t rush the process to finish, but rather see it as an opportunity to build something that matters to you and potentially to others. The journey will be richer and more rewarding if you stay connected to your why! 

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals? 

My long-term career goals are centered on advancing equity in education, a path I’m already pursuing through my work in the nonprofit sector. I hope to continue developing innovative curriculum and program designs that address systemic inequities and create meaningful opportunities for underserved communities. Although balancing both academic and work priorities was often challenging, it has been incredibly rewarding to know that I was able to pursue both passions simultaneously, advance in both areas and intentionally intertwine them to drive meaningful change beyond the classroom.