Varsha Menon

Background

About Varsha Menon

During my freshman year coursework, I realized that I wanted to give back by working in international development- to help nations that were not as fortunate as Western ones. I ultimately chose to major in International Political Economy because of how it focuses on the simultaneous impacts of political factors and economic factors on development, demonstrating that these two factors do not interact independently. There have been numerous instances where development policies have been implemented unsuccessfully due to a lack of consideration of the grander political, economic, and cultural context of the state receiving aid. In fact, in some cases, development policies have actually further harmed rather than helped the society.It is for this reason I am seeking opportunities in the international development sector, specifically research positions. Since my time at Georgetown, I've held jobs and internships where I conducted qualitative and quantitative research. I specifically wish to look at how specialized support of marginalized identities impacts development outcomes. In order to see better improvements in economic and political development, more robust efforts need to be taken to research into what strategies and policies do and don't work. With my coding and writing experience, I hope to help develop policies that reduce poverty in a sustainable manner.