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Student Snapshot: Isa Mester ’26

International student Isa Mester ’26 (law & policy) found a welcoming community at Dickinson—and exceptional opportunities to lead and succeed. Studying abroad in Copenhagen, she met a retired judge for international tribunals. She also interned at Airbus Defence and Space in Bremen and organizes public lectures and interviews dignitaries through The Clarke Forum for Contemporary Issues. “I truly appreciate the control I’ve had over shaping my own path,” she says. “Coming from the countryside in northern Germany to study in the United States has been such a meaningful journey for me. It’s something I’m very proud of, and it reminds me how far I’ve come and how much I’ve grown along the way.”

Hometown:

Ganderkesee, Germany.

High school:

Western Reserve Academy.

Major:

Law & policy.

Why did you choose Dickinson:

I chose Dickinson because I felt welcome and at home from the moment I toured the campus. The admissions team was incredibly supportive; they encouraged me to interview and even waived my language test requirement, which made me feel genuinely cared for.

Best thing about my Dickinson experience so far:

The best thing about Dickinson is definitely the great community. There is something truly special about the people here. Everyone is really welcoming, supportive and genuinely interested in seeing each other succeed.

Best thing about my major:

The best thing about my major is that it allows me to focus on the law and really discover my specific interests within it. It also gives me the flexibility to study abroad for a full year, which was an incredible opportunity to broaden my perspective while still staying aligned with my academic goals. I truly appreciate the control I’ve had over shaping my own path.

Favorite class/learning experience:

My favorite class so far has been my First-Year Seminar, Russia, Ukraine, and the Future of Europe. The interdisciplinary approach of the course really challenged the way I think and helped me develop a more analytical and broader perspective. It also shaped my academic approach long-term and encouraged me to look at complex issues from multiple angles.

Favorite professor:

My First Year Seminar professor, Professor of Russian Alyssa DeBlasio challenged me academically while offering constant support and guidance. She is also an amazing advisor; she encouraged me to apply for my current position with the Clarke Forum and even recommended me for it. Even now, after three years, she regularly checks in with our first-year seminar class.

Proudest accomplishment so far:

One of my proudest accomplishments is simply being here in the U.S. and at Dickinson. Coming from the countryside in northern Germany to study in the United States has been such a meaningful journey for me. It’s something I’m very proud of, and it reminds me how far I’ve come and how much I’ve grown along the way.

On studying abroad:

Studying abroad in Copenhagen through one of the Dickinson partner programs, DIS, was an incredible experience. My favorite highlight was a study trip to western Denmark, where we had the unique opportunity to meet and speak with a former judge for international tribunals at a castle. It was an unforgettable experience.

About my work with the Clarke Forum:

On campus, I work for the , which is one of the great student employment and leadership opportunities on campus. In this role, I help organize public lectures and discussions on contemporary issues featuring leading scholars and professionals. It’s been a very meaningful experience that has allowed me to connect classroom learning with real-world conversations.

About my internship:

I interned with Airbus Defence and Space in Bremen, Germany. During my time there, I learned a great deal about international export control while working across two departments. The experience not only helped me develop valuable new skill sets but also strengthened my professional confidence and showed me how much I have gained from my studies at Dickinson.

Post-Dickinson plans:

I hope to begin graduate school next fall to pursue my interest in international law and security.

Most important thing I’ve learned so far:

The most important thing I’ve learned so far is the value of reflecting on my journey along the way. It’s easy to compare yourself to others and set unrealistic expectations, but I’ve realized that I do best when focusing on my own path and take care of myself. Working hard and positioning myself well are important but so is maintaining balance. The Dickinson community has been wonderful in reminding me to prioritize well-being as part of success.

Clubs and organizations:

The Clarke Forum for Contemporary Issues, Hypnotic Dance Team and German Club.

Honors/scholarships/awards:

Dean’s List and John Dickinson Scholarship.

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Published November 3, 2025