Undergraduate Migrations Scholars

Undergraduate Migrations scholars help promote the study of migration on Cornell's campus. Meet this semester's cohort. 

Meet the Scholars

Ariella Asllani '26

Public Policy

“I study forced migration and refugee studies with a focus on the socioeconomic impact of government corruption. I hope to use my experiences to inform, advocate, and organize.”

Iskander Khan '26

Government

"I am interested in studying migration, partitions, and political theory—interests that stem from my own family's migration following the 1947 Partition of India. I'm excited about meeting other students interested in migration studies."

Isabel Macedo '26

Anthropology

"I am passionate about working on migration because it impacts every facet of our lives, whether we realize it or not. I am grateful to be collaborating with other students who seek to elevate the diverse realities of migration at such a pressing time."

Yazmin Muñiz '27

English and Government

“To me, migration has always symbolized movement—the rejection of stagnation. Originating from a mixed migrant family, my Colombian and Puerto Rican culture symbolizes that migration can come from many walks of life. As a Migrations scholar, my biggest motivator is promoting the meaning of ‘migration’ as more than just a derogatory and set word—and using this to educate others.”

Isabella Riano '25

American Studies and Government

“Through my work assisting asylum seekers and working with undocumented children, I have cultivated a deep commitment to integrating more compassion and humanity into legal frameworks. My interest in this program is driven by a desire to examine the ways that legal structures disproportionately impact certain migrant populations, exacerbating the complexities and inequities inherent in the system.”

Joaquin Rivera '24

Industrial and Labor Relations

“Through my studies in the Southeast Asia Program and my Filipino heritage, I am particularly interested in migration in that region of Asia and how it was affected by colonialism. As a Migrations scholar, I hope to create conversations that allow people to consider the historical contexts that inform how and why migration happens today.”

Darius Tyler '27

Government and Philosophy

“I believe the right to movement is a basic human right. I have become tremendously passionate about the topic of migration as I have been exploring the intersections of diplomacy and human rights, as well as displacement and post-colonial development in my studies here at Cornell.”

Yanisa Vararaksapong '26

Government

“As an asylum seeker, I am committed to learning about and advocating for the rights, dignity, agency, and unique experiences of migrants. I am excited about the opportunity to learn from experienced scholars and advocates and share that knowledge with the Cornell community.”