As I step into 2025, I find myself at a crossroads of personal growth and professional achievement. This year is poised to be a pivotal one, brimming with opportunities to push boundaries, embrace challenges, and savor life’s milestones.
Doctoral Completion: Becoming a Doctor in Global Security
The cornerstone of my 2025 plans is achieving a title I have worked tirelessly for: Doctor in Global Security. With my research on the socio-economic and environmental impacts of climate change on the Danube Delta communities nearing its conclusion, this journey has been one of resilience and discovery. The process of writing, revising, and preparing for the final defense is as demanding as it is rewarding. Earning this title will mark the culmination of years of dedication and open new doors to contribute meaningfully to the field of global security.
Fulbright Research: From Theory to Impact
Four months into my Fulbright journey, I’ve gained invaluable insights while conducting fieldwork in Romania’s Danube Delta. This year will mark a continuation of those efforts, with planned interviews, deeper community engagement, and perhaps an extension of my research through the summer, a critical time for observing environmental dynamics in the region. The Fulbright experience has been a profound lesson in cultural exchange, adaptability, and the power of human connection, and I am excited to see how it evolves in the months ahead.
Continuing Work in Space Security
In addition to my research on climate change and human security, I remain deeply committed to advancing the field of space security. This year, I aim to contribute to the development of frameworks that address the governance and strategic challenges of space exploration and utilization. Through lectures, presentations, and collaborations, I hope to emphasize the importance of international cooperation in ensuring that space remains a domain for peaceful exploration and innovation. Space security continues to be a vital part of my academic and professional identity, and I am eager to expand my impact in this field.
Milestone Publication and Presenting Research
In 2025, I will achieve a major milestone with the publication of my first book chapter, focusing on New Zealand’s COVID-19 response. This chapter examines the policies and strategies employed during the pandemic, offering insights into resilience and crisis management. Seeing my work in print is both an honor and a reminder of the importance of perseverance in academic writing.
This year will also bring the exciting opportunity to present my research at several international conferences. Sharing my findings with global audiences allows me to contribute to important conversations while gaining valuable feedback to refine my work. These engagements highlight the collaborative nature of academia and the power of ideas to transcend borders.
Cultural Exchange: Building Bridges
Living in Romania has offered countless opportunities for cultural exchange. In 2025, I plan to deepen this exchange through lectures, events, and engaging discussions. Sharing my knowledge on topics such as space exploration, security, and international relations has been a meaningful way to connect with local communities and foster mutual understanding. I look forward to continuing this work, building bridges between cultures, and creating spaces for dialogue and collaboration.
Mentoring and Teaching: Shaping Future Leaders
One of the most rewarding aspects of my professional life is mentoring students and guiding them toward their goals. In 2025, I aim to deepen my engagement with aspiring scholars, helping them navigate their academic journeys and empowering them to reach new heights. Additionally, I plan to continue teaching at GMC, where I am inspired by the curiosity and resilience of my students. Teaching has been a source of mutual growth, and I look forward to making a lasting impact in this role.
Adventures Await: Katmai and Beyond
A highlight of 2025 will undoubtedly be my trip to Katmai National Park in Alaska. After winning the lottery to visit and stay at Brooks Lodge, I will have the incredible opportunity to witness bears fishing for salmon in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-lifetime experience combines my love for wildlife and the great outdoors, offering a moment of reflection and wonder amidst the year’s many challenges.
Katmai is set to be the main trip of the year, but I am hopeful for more adventures, including hiking the breathtaking Romanian mountains. With their diverse trails and stunning landscapes, these mountains represent an opportunity to reconnect with nature and explore the beauty of the country I now call home. Each step in the wilderness, whether in Alaska or Romania, promises inspiration, clarity, and a deeper appreciation for the world around me.
Expanding Horizons
Beyond the dissertation, Fulbright research, and travel, I hope to further my involvement in building initiatives like Women in Security (wSEC) student organization. Sharing my experiences through guest lectures, blogs, and conference presentations remains a priority, as does finding ways to inspire others to explore their potential.
As I navigate this multifaceted year, I am reminded of the importance of balance, between ambition and reflection, work and exploration. Here’s to 2025: a year of purpose, progress, and possibilities.