Mari Angelopoulos '26
Mari Angelopoulos '26
- Hometown: Hinsdale, IL
- Class: 2026
- Majors: Data Analytics, International Studies
- Minor: Japanese
- Other Activities:
- Honors College
- Sigma Iota Rho
- Model United Nations
- Women in Law
- Redhawk Radio
Why Miami?
I liked the way Miami's International Studies program was structured, and I found there to be a lot of resources that could help me reach my academic and professional goals. I also appreciated being able to connect with faculty at admitted student events and how personable everyone in the admissions process was.
How did you choose your major?
Before starting at Miami, I knew I wanted to study international affairs before going to law school, and the International Studies major fit a lot of my academic interests. The language and study abroad requirements in the major also aligned with the experiences that I wanted to gain during my time at Miami. I also knew that I wanted to add a second major to gain more technical knowledge, and to my surprise the Data Analytics program fit very well with my International Studies major.
Key Moment at Miami
During the first semester of my freshman year I took Introduction to International Studies, a prerequisite course for my major, with Dr. Dilchoda Berdieva. I interacted with Dr. Berdieva frequently not only through that class but also as she is an advisor for the International Studies major. Dr. Berdieva has now become an invaluable mentor to me, and I have had the privilege of working with her through my independent research project and as an Undergraduate Associate.
Other Notable Experience
This year, I am serving as the Vice President of Sigma Iota Rho and the Undersecretary of Logistics for Model United Nations. Being involved in student organizations has been a highlight of my Miami experience and I have made so many friendships through these involvements. From a leadership perspective, holding executive positions has helped me develop key skills that will be useful professionally. I have also been able to undertake an Independent Study in the form of a research project, which has allowed me to work with a faculty advisor and dive into topics within the field of International Studies.
What are your career goals?
After graduating from Miami, I plan to attend law school. I am interested in intellectual property law and how it is applied on an international scale, and I hope to pursue a legal career that incorporates this interest.
