IDS Graduate Student Discovered A Community For Global Change

 

I’m Nari Lee from South Korea, and I am a graduate in the Environmental Studies Master Program and I also completed the International Development Studies (IDS) Graduate Certificate. I worked in Mongolia and South Korea in conservation and social justice, and the International Development Studies (IDS) Graduate Certificate has been very meaningful for me. One of the most special parts of the IDS program was meeting like-minded people who are passionate about supporting global communities and building solidarity, especially here in Montana. In Fall 2025, I served as an IDS intern, where I did outreach to introduce the program and shared my international conservation work. It was really meaningful to connect with others and talk about both my experiences and the IDS program.

During my IDS internship, we organized a panel event, “Weird, Wild, and World Change: International Adventures in Creating a Sustainable Future for All,” which brought together people interested in international development. That experience showed me how passionate people are about global justice and peace, and it was fulfilling to create a space for those conversations. Through IDS coursework, especially Environmental International Development, Politics of Food, and Program Evaluation, I was able to strengthen my understanding and apply my skills in practical ways. Overall, the IDS program has been a valuable experience that deepened my perspective and connected me with a community that shares my passion.