AGS student presents a paper at ISA conference in NYC

At the International Studies Association conference held in New York City on 15-18 February 2009, Laura-Lee Smith (class of 2009) presented her thesis entitled "Why have U.S. economic sanctions been largely ineffective in deterring Iranian nuclear ambitions?"

The fifteen-minute presentation was a precursor to her academic defense in the upcoming months.

"ISA was an incredible experience for me. I was able to present my thesis to experts with a panel of Ph.D. students for feedback and criticism. Inclusion in one of the largest and well-respected conferences in political science was an opportunity to represent AGSIRD to the fullest. The presence of my academic advisor Dr. Ruchi Anand and fellow student Jenica Jones gave me confidence during the most nerve-racking moments. Overall, the conference was a success - I received encouraging remarks and suggestions for how to sharpen my topic which I will include in my final thesis presentation."