Ria Reddy

Ria Reddy (she/her) is pursuing a major in International Relations with specializations in the Middle East and Central Asia (MECA) and International Security, and a minor in Iranian Studies. She spoke with us about her favorite classes, research interests, and internship experience!

What are your primary research interests?

My primary research interests revolve around security policy, with a specific focus on nuclear ambitions, weapons technology, and arms treaties/diplomacy within the context of the Middle East and Central Asia. Currently, I am writing a thesis that examines the repercussions experienced by actors who undertake preemptive attacks against nuclear facilities. I am deeply interested in the non-proliferation regime and its impact on the broader security environment and decision-making.

What is your favorite IR class so far and why?

It's tough to choose between INTNLREL 183: The Modern Battle and INTLPOL 296: Blueprint to Battlefield - Weapons Technology and Sociotechnical Change. Both are amazing classes and had a significant impact on my academic journey and career goals. In the Modern Battle, we delved deep into the battlefields of major conflicts, gaining insight into ground-level decision-making and the shaping forces behind successful campaigns. In INTLPOL 296, I was fascinated by the intersections between policymakers and scientists/engineers and how their relationship defines the invention and development of weapons technologies.

Can you tell us a bit about a recent internship experience?

I recently completed an internship at the Near East South Asia Center (NESA) for Strategic Studies, a prominent Department of Defense institution. During my time there, I collaborated closely with both fellow interns and senior fellows, engaging in in-depth policy research and analysis concerning pressing issues in the region, including the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan. One of the highlights was my involvement in various conferences with leaders across the globe, aimed at fostering security cooperation with partner nations across the NESA region and addressing a spectrum of global security challenges. This experience significantly reinforced my career aspirations within this field.