Sina Azodi is a lecturer at the Elliott School specializing in the Middle East. He is a non-resident Fellow at the Atlantic Council, and a PhD candidate in International Affairs. His research interests include international security, nuclear non-proliferation, and US-Iranian relations. Sina previously worked as a Research Assistant at Princeton University’s Program on Science and Global Security and Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Sina earned his BA and MA in International Affairs from the Elliott School of International Affairs at the George Washington University.
You received both your BA and MA from the Elliott School. Now, you teach here. What’s that like?
When I was a student at GW, my dream was to come back to GW and teach here. So, it is really a great pleasure to be able to come back and teach to a great community of talented students.
Were there any Elliott professors who influenced your decision to pursue a career in international affairs?
I had several professors who played an important role in my intellectual foundation, but I am always grateful to Ambassador Skip Gnehm who was not only a fantastic professor but also a great mentor. I am always indebted to his kindness, and generosity. I’m also thankful to Professor Charles Glaser, who set the foundation of International Relations theory for me, in a sense converting me to a Realist!
Do any significant moments stand out during your experience as a student at the Elliott School?
There are significant moments that stand out for me, but perhaps one that I will never forget is when I received my admission letter from ESIA for my undergraduate degree in 2007. George Washington University was the only school that I had applied to for my undergraduate education because I really wanted to attend GW. In retrospect, perhaps applying to only one school was not the smartest decision, but it was one of the most joyful moments in my life.
You are currently pursuing a Ph.D. while also teaching undergraduate and graduate courses here at Elliott. What is your area of research and specialization?
My dissertation focuses on the historical development of Iran’s nuclear program which began in the early days of the Cold War. Specifically, I look at the program from the angle of continuity, and how even after the 1979 revolution in Iran, the program continued because the factors that influence the program did not lose their significance to Iran’s decision makers. Overall, however, my focus is on US-Iranian relations and Iran’s foreign policy
How would you describe your philosophy of teaching? How was this philosophy influenced by your time as a student at Elliott?
Perhaps the most important lesson I learned during my academic career has been the ability to think critically. I encourage both my undergraduate and graduate students to think critically and “out of the box.” As a student, I came to know and appreciate its impact on producing research. As a professor, I seek to encourage students to think for themselves and demonstrate the willingness and ability to bring new perspectives into the classroom. Another important aspect of teaching philosophy is to encourage students to engage with the lecture and the class. I believe that this is very effective both in producing knowledge and creating a positive experience.
Any advice for Elliott students considering pursuing academia?
My only advice is to never give up trying and don’t get discouraged because being a student is not easy. There are many issues that a student must deal with, and the only solution is perseverance and determination to achieve one’s goals. I would also say that don’t try to plan too much, because there are many accidents along the path.