MA in Sociology

Ilya Kim

Describe your current area of research and/or your academic interests. 

My current research interests include democratization and social movements in Russia. In particular, I am focused on studying how diasporas in exile can generate, maintain, and preserve ties with the people in Russia.  

Why did you choose George Mason to pursue your studies?

Mason Korea recruited me at my high school — Busan Foreign School in South Korea — in 2019. (The university) has been super helpful in understanding my financial hardships and offered robust opportunities to develop both as a scholar and as a student leader.

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

Professor Hyunjin Deborah Kwak for introducing me to sociology and mentoring me through my first research projects.  

Professor John Dale for mentoring and introducing me to the research hub, Movement Engaged, and being my mentor throughout various research projects.  

How do you hope to use your degree and studies in the future?

My hope is to use my degree and eventually conduct a research project on the Russian diaspora in the United States and its development over the past two decades.

Professionally, I hope to continue working with grassroots and major foundations in D.C., to help facilitate evacuation flights of individuals who are facing illegal persecution in Russia.

How will the Dean’s Challenge scholarship support your studies

The Dean’s Challenge scholarship will help me to refocus on my studies, without being worried about tuition and other expenses that have previously hindered me from studying full-time.