A distinct feature of the Graduate School of Global Politics (GSGP) is that the program enables its outstanding PhD candidates to complete a 3 – year course not only at the Freie University Berlin, but also at one of its renowned Chinese partner universities. Behind the program´s regional focus on East Asia and Europe stands a pioneering concept, namely that the GSGP is the first bi – national German- Chinese PhD program in social sciences. Thus, providing the unique international academic experience of gaining first – hand knowledge about the two countries. By taking their research from one continent to another, PhD students embrace the difference in socio – political, cultural and economic factors, and their interdependency. The program is designed to provide both in-depth knowledge of theories and methodology in International Relations and an understanding for what it means to approach a research-oriented career from a truly global perspective. 

Friederike Kies is currently a prospective PhD student of the Graduate School for Global Politics. After obtaining her Bachelor´s and Master´s degrees both in ´International Relations´, she was driven to continue her academic path in the field of Global Politics. Her decision to enroll in the GSGP program was for the most part influenced by the opportunity to do a research stay at a Chinese university, so she can expand and deepen her knowledge on “Women on Corporate Boards”, which is also the topic of her dissertation.

After graduating from the GSGP program and successfully defending her thesis, Friederike Kies is determined to use her knowledge by working at the state chancellery a the department, where she would be responsible for the coordination and successful implementation of EU policies on the regional level. Another potential carrier option for Friederike would be at the German Foreign Affairs Office, where she can best utilize her skills and expertise. The quote that best captures her time at the GSGP is “Love what you do and do what you love”.

We are excited to find out what the future holds for Friederike Kies, wish her all the best and thank her for her dedication to the GSGP program!