Michael English

Did you study abroad as a student? What was your international experience like?

I didn’t have the opportunity to study abroad until I was in graduate school. As a first-generation student, I did not even know such opportunities were possible, nor did I realize the profound impact they could have on my understanding of the world. Nevertheless, when I did finally go abroad, it proved to be a pivotal moment in my career; I would not be where I am now without that experience. It gave me the exposure and skills necessary to be a competitive candidate for doctoral programs. It also showed me the vital need for us to connect the learning that takes place in the classroom with the lived experience of people’s lives. 
 
As to what was it like, it was both exhilarating and challenging. When you study issues of peace and conflict, you go places where, unfortunately, there is societal tension, and in many cases, the population has experienced some kind of violent event or war. The stories you hear are often stories of hope mixed with tremendous amounts of suffering and pain. I am thankful for what people have shared with me and for being examples of the strength we humans have to persist in the face of hardship.

Why should PACS students study abroad?

If we want to work for sustainable peace and justice, we have to get out of our comfort zones and engage with the world. For PACS students this international exposure is vital to getting a sense of how interconnected and interdependent our world is, particularly when it comes to addressing the challenges they feel so passionately about, be it climate change, human rights, poverty, or nuclear disarmament. Going abroad allows us to meet and engage with others interested in similar issues and build networks of solidarity across national divides.

Why is Malta such an excellent location for your Global Seminar?

Malta is an amazing place with a rich history and unique culture. Reason enough to visit. Yet for students wanting to deepen their understanding of issues related to matters of peace, conflict, and security, Malta is a focal point for the migration crisis happening in the Mediterranean. The movement of people from the Middle East and Sub-Saharan Africa in reaction to the effects of climate change, war, and lack of economic opportunity has created a dramatic situation where people are willing to risk their lives in search of a better life in Europe. Yet, and as we’ve seen here in the US, this very movement of people causes conflict. As the numbers of people migrating increase, the ability and willingness of countries to assist migrants becomes a focal point for hostilities not only between countries, but also between citizens seeking to relocate. Malta, being a very small island, has wrestled with a large migration flow while at the same time receiving very limited assistance from its European partners. As such, students participating in the seminar will gain first hand exposure to how both citizens and state actors address this complex phenomenon, especially focusing on the role human rights can play in maintaining dignity and respect for all involved in the process.

What is your favorite Maltese food?

Pastizzi! It’s the Maltese national snack and you can stuff yourself silly on them for under 2 euro. They are pastries stuffed with either ricotta or peas. The pea variety happens to be my favorite and I hate peas, but these I will eat them until I’m sick. Get ready!

What aspect of this program do you look forward to the most?

When you travel to the Mediterranean from Colorado how can you not say the sea? In all seriousness, I look forward to connecting students with my amazing colleagues in Malta. They do remarkable work in the area of migration and human rights, and I think this program is a fantastic experience to learn first-hand what it is like to work on an issue from all levels, from that of the policymaker all the way down to the grassroots activist. If you’re thinking about a career in international development, foreign service, international law, or activism this is the trip for you.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions!

Last Updated August 2022