Student Perspective: United Nations Event Brings Academic Learning to Life

By Chomolungma Tamang 

NEW YORK CITY, N.Y. (April 20, 2026) — On the close of Women’s History Month, it was surreal to hear from iconic women leaders and allies at the forefront of entertainment, science, media and business from across the world at the “Women Breaking Barriers” event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. 

As an international affairs student, being in a space where global decisions are made brought my academic learning to life. The event brought together global voices, including UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, astronaut Katya Echazarreta, comedian Sandra Kwon, and many others to highlight the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment. 

What stood out to me most during “Women Breaking Barriers” was that leaders from different sectors shared not only their successes but also the structural challenges women continue to face globally. 

Listening to these conversations helped me connect what I study in class—global governance, policy-making, and human rights—to real-world experiences. It reinforced the idea that meaningful change requires collaboration across sectors and countries. 

I am currently pursuing my master of international affairs at Rockefeller College of Public Affairs & Policy, with a concentration in global governance and diplomacy. My academic interests are shaped by my background in Nepal, where I worked with organizations supporting migrant women and advocating for safer migration policies. These experiences have deeply influenced my commitment to issues of human rights, gender equality and international development. 

Looking ahead, I hope to build a career working with international organizations where I can contribute to policy solutions that address global inequalities and support vulnerable communities. Attending this event at the United Nations not only strengthened my academic understanding but also inspired me to pursue these goals with greater clarity and purpose. 

This opportunity was made possible through the Rockefeller College Professor Harold W. Adams Student Experience Fund, which supports students in accessing meaningful academic and professional experiences beyond the classroom. As an international student, this support was especially meaningful, as it allowed me to engage directly with a global policy space that I would not have otherwise been able to access. 

This experience reminded me that global change is driven not only by institutions, but also by individuals who are willing to challenge barriers and create opportunities for others.