Meet Eric Asare ‘25

Where are you from and what is your background?
I am from Ghana, West Africa. I received my BA in Social Sciences from the University of Cape Coast. Growing up in Accra, not only did I witness the phenomenon of rural-urban migration, but also the influx of thousands of refugees and migrants from war ravaged Liberia and Sierra Leone. With that experience, I took an interest in the issues of refugees and migrants from an early age since I had some as my classmates, friends, and neighbors. I had the opportunity to relocate to Rome, Italy, which is the main destination for refugees and migrants fleeing wars, civil unrest, and poverty in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa. I also volunteered and worked with the Peace Lab, Malta (a non-governmental organization run by a Franciscan frier that seeks the welfare of asylum seekers and migrants). These experiences have exposed me to the perilous journeys these migrants embark on to get to Europe by crossing the ‘deadliest border in the world’ with thousands losing their lives in the Mediterranean Sea. My research interests include international migration, international refugee law, and human rights.

Why did you apply for this graduate program and decide to study at USF?
I chose the MA in Migration Studies because of the interdisciplinary nature of the program. It provides a foundational framework for understanding the economic, political, historical, and environmental displacement of people across borders. The opportunity to learn from leading immigration and human rights scholars and have access to organizations at the forefront of migration research, policy, advocacy, and outreach was important to me also.

What impacts has the Dean's Scholarship had on your ability to further your studies?
The Dean’s Scholarship has had a massive impact on my life. Given my background, there was no way I could afford the financial burden of graduate education, particularly in San Francisco. The scholarship has made it possible for me to focus my time and energy on my studies.

What are your career ambitions?
I would like to work with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), International Organization for Migration (IOM), or an non-governmental organization that advocates for the rights of asylum seekers and migrants.

What is something unique or interesting about you?
I played on a soccer team made up of only asylum seekers and migrants. I also like to travel to learn more about different cultures.