Schwarzman Scholars is designed to prepare future global leaders to meet the geopolitical challenges of the 21st century. Scholars earn a one-year master’s degree in global affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing. They live in Beijing for a year of study and cultural immersion, attending lectures, traveling, and developing a better understanding of China.

Emily, who is from Italy, works for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Passionate about innovative approaches to refugee protection, Emily has worked in impact-investing for refugee integration in Armenia, researched migration’s role in EU development policy in Senegal, and taught an undergraduate seminar in comparative legal studies in the United States. Emily believes that a deeper understanding of China’s global role will strengthen cooperation and solutions in forced displacement crises. She studied political science and economics at Carolina.

Alice, who is from the U.S., studied economics and mathematics at Carolina. She served as executive director of Students for Students International, a nonprofit that supports educational initiatives for girls in Tanzania, and she taught English in Kolkata on a Fulbright Scholarship. In addition to international development and cross-cultural communication, Alice is passionate about applying economics to business solutions and currently works at NERA Economic Consulting. Eventually, she hopes to promote a collaborative aid agenda between China, the U.S., and other global leaders.

“Being named a Schwarzman Scholar is an exceptional achievement,” said UNC Chancellor Carol Folt.

“This scholarship is also a passport to international studies and new experiences for these two amazingly talented graduates. Thanks to the Schwarzman opportunity, Emily will continue her insightful work in the area of refugee protection, and Alice will take her studies in development economics to the next level. I know we will read about their successes in the years to come.”