Nina Balandina

Nina Balandina is a first-year graduate student pursuing a PhD in Comparative and International Education, with a professional placement in the Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs (OGPA) and the International Services Office (ISO). As a doctoral student, her research focus lies at the intersection of geopolitics and higher education, where she explores the challenges that geopolitical conflicts pose to the internationalization strategies of higher education institutions. She actively participates in academic conferences and collaborates on research projects with faculty members at GW and internationally.  

In her role as a fellow, Nina works to improve the inclusivity of GW support services and address the unique needs of graduate and international students. At OGPA, she assists with a project about parental leave policies for graduate students. She analyzes strategies to enhance funding opportunities and resources on campus for students who take parental leave, ensuring they receive the support they need during this important time. At ISO, she facilitates connections between international students and their advisors regarding visa-related matters.