Meet Alexandra Atherton, newly named a 2025 Philip Merrill Presidential Scholar, whose passion for understanding extremism was ignited through START’s Global Terrorism Studies Minor. Her story shows how the program equips students with the tools to navigate today’s complex information environment. We’re proud to celebrate her achievements.
How did you find out about the Global Terrorism Studies Minor, and what motivated you to join?
I first learned about the GTSM when I took the BSST course Misinformation, Conspiracy Theories, and the Radicalization of Modern Societies. I was immediately drawn to understanding what drives conspiratorial thinking and wanted to strengthen my ability to identify mis- and disinformation online. After just three weeks, I left the class inspired to continue exploring these issues and eager to study the growing threat of extremist ideology I was seeing across digital spaces. This ultimately motivated me to join the minor.
Which class or classes in the minor have been most influential in your academic career?
The most influential course I’ve taken in the minor is Dr. Pate’s Far-Right Extremism class. It not only reshaped my career path but fundamentally changed how I understand extremism in both the United States and abroad. The course also complemented my internship with START on the Terrorism and Targeted Violence (T2V) team, giving me an academic foundation that directly supported the work I was doing.
How does the minor complement your majors in Criminology and Criminal Justice and Government and Politics?
One of the things I appreciate most about the GTSM is that the coursework is distinct from my two majors, yet still deeply connected. The minor has expanded my understanding of a unique category of crime and violence that I do not encounter in CCJS, as well as a critical area of political conflict that I do not fully explore in GVPT. None of these issues exist in isolation, and studying all three fields together has given me the most well-rounded academic experience I could ask for.
What are your career plans after you graduate?
Building on my internship experience with START, I hope to continue pursuing a career in extremism and terrorism research and writing. I also plan to pursue a Master’s degree in Counterterrorism or International Security.
What advice would you give to undergraduate students considering the GTSM program?
Apply! It is more relevant than ever to study terrorism and extremism. We are constantly confronted with noise, misinformation, and disinformation online, and the GTSM program equips you to navigate it with clarity. It has helped me make sense of some of the most complex and controversial issues of our time, and I encourage any student interested in these topics to take advantage of the opportunity.