#  Graduate Profile: Ciara Moezidis, MTS '24 

 





May 13, 2024

 

 

     ![Ciara Moezidis, MTS '24](/sites/g/files/omnuum5526/files/styles/hwp_16_9__480x270/public/hds2/files/ciaramoezidis-900x600.jpg?itok=Q7lLEzpY) 

Ciara Moezidis, MTS '24 / Courtesy photo

 



 

## How I've Changed 

I've undergone a profound transformation since beginning my journey at HDS. This experience broadened my horizons, nurturing an intellectual curiosity I had long sought. Over the past three years, both inside and outside the classroom, I've come to understand the idea "once you see, you cannot unsee."

Recognizing the inextricable intertwining of religion and public life, and the imperative for us all to grapple with multiple truths, has deeply enriched my perspective as I step into my professional career. Empowered by this capacity for critical thinking and deeply motivated to confront many of the ills of our world head-on, I now envision a necessary reimagining of society. I prioritize living a life guided by awareness, embracing complexity over simplicity, and maintaining unwavering moral consistency.

## Favorite Class or Professor 

Among the courses I've taken, "Narratives of Displacement and Belonging in Israel/Palestine" stands out as my favorite. It offered an immersive exploration of this complex context, emphasizing the importance of embracing multiple truths. Through this class, I had the opportunity to spend the summer in Israel/Palestine, an experience that profoundly altered my perspective and equipped me with the necessary tools and framing to understand the unfolding genocide in Gaza.

Delving into the narratives of displacement and belonging, I learned to navigate the delicate balance between joy and suffering. The insights gained from this experience not only broadened my worldview but also prepared me to engage with similar challenges on a global scale. By learning to bear witness and confront hegemonic narratives, I developed a heightened awareness and sensitivity crucial for my aspirations in pursuing a career in human rights. This journey prompted profound reflections on my own positionality, particularly in understanding the implications of my American identity across various global contexts.

## Message of Thanks 

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my family, particularly my dad, whose unwavering support has been the bedrock of my accomplishments. I am deeply grateful to the dedicated faculty and mentors who expanded my horizons beyond what I ever thought possible. Special thanks to the RPL team, particularly professors Moore and Omer, Susie, Hilary, and Reem, who transformed HDS into a welcoming home and provided invaluable support and mentorship throughout my journey. I am grateful for the new family I have gained through this experience. Additionally, I am inspired by my fellow comrades (you know who you are!), who fearlessly speak truth to power and tirelessly work to disrupt unjust systems, igniting much-needed change amidst a world in upheaval.

## Future Plans 

I will be conducting research on digital rights and free expression in Amman, Jordan, with the support of Harvard's Frederick Sheldon Traveling Fellowship. It is an incredible honor to have this opportunity to continue my learning in context and embark on a journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation after one of the most difficult years. Strengthening my Arabic and Persian language skills is a top priority, and I am eager to finally dive into the stack of books that have been patiently waiting for me since I started graduate school. The future promises growth, exploration, and meaningful connections, and I can't wait to embrace this new chapter of the unknown.



 

 

 



 

 See also:- [ Student Activities and Interviews ](/discover-stories-about/student-activities-and-interviews)
- [ Commencement ](/topic-tags/commencement)
- [ Commencement 2024 ](/topic-tags/commencement-2024)