About CIRA

The Contemporary International Relations Association (CIRA) is an organization dedicated to inspiring global awareness, preparing students for careers in think tanks and non-profits, and contributing to the overall policy debate in modern foreign affairs. We foster a collaborative community where students strengthen their research, interpersonal skills, and relevant international knowledge through weekly dialogue on global issues, policy-oriented research in foreign affairs, networking events with professors and guests, and professional lecture events with off-campus practitioners. 

CIRA is organized into four regional centers (Africa & the Middle East; Asia-Pacific; Europe & Eurasia; The Americas), where students may choose to commit themselves to one or multiple for in-depth knowledge on the region and its contemporary politics. CIRA also maintains its own policy journal publication for students interested in publishing their research and advocacies in international relations.

Our monthly programming features ~four weekly meetings, one social event, and one guest speaker event/panel. We often host career professionals and true diplomats from the United States and other countries in our organization. At the end of each semester, we hold a flagship impact conference where members get an opportunity to present original research to peers and faculty. Ultimately, CIRA members, through these experiences, will gain tangible skills in research, public policy, global thinking, and interpersonal skills that are essential to navigate an increasingly interconnected world, preparing them to thrive in the international workforce.