The Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies (CAIS) provided a challenging and engaging learning environment, facilitated by approachable academics who are experts in their field. The Master of Middle Eastern and Central Asian Studies offered by CAIS took a multi-disciplinary approach, utilising historical, sociological, anthropological, political and developmental frameworks enabling me to develop an in-depth reading of a complex region.

The factor that pulled me towards studying at CAIS, was that ANU is the only university in Australia offering Persian language courses. The program provided the opportunity to both engage with and critically consider the dominant narratives and paradigms permeating our understanding of Iran, whether by challenging traditional international relations discourses or contextualising political dynamics within broader historical shifts. The Persian language team are incredibly encouraging and supportive, offering extracurricular study sessions (and great movie recommendations) to the Persian Society.

Within the Masters, I chose to conduct a semester of research supported by CAIS and by a supervisor with deep knowledge in my field of interest. This enabled me to delve into particular constructions of Iranian history, memory and nationalism that had sparked my interest during my visits to Iran. Through the course, I developed strong analytical skills that I can confidently apply to future academic endeavours or in a range of public and private sector roles.