Announcements
New name, same global vision
The Department of European Studies is now the Department of Comparative International Studies (CINTS). Our faculty and commitment to student success remain unchanged—what’s new is a broader lens on today’s interconnected world.
We now offer the CINTS major as well as minors in European Studies, French, German, Italian, and Russian. Expect the same rigorous learning across regions and disciplines.
Department of European Studies
The Department of European Studies at San Diego State University is one of the few integrated, interdisciplinary European Studies departments in the United States. It takes a comprehensive and transnational approach to the study of Western Europe, Central and Eastern Europe, Russia, the Mediterranean, and Europe’s diasporic and postcolonial communities around the world.
The department offers a number of distinct degree programs, which in addition to the Comparative International Studies major include minors in European Studies, French, German, Italian, Russian, and the Master’s degree in French.
Congratulations to our 2026 Outstanding Graduating Seniors!
CINTS Outstanding Graduating Senior
Angelle Duong is pursuing a double major in Linguistics and Comparative International Studies (CINTS), along with a certificate in Human Rights. Within CINTS, she focuses on General Asia and China.
She was drawn to CINTS after recognizing how her Linguistics coursework—especially its emphasis on how language shapes power dynamics—closely aligns with examining how global power structures affect local communities. Through this interdisciplinary approach, she has developed strong critical thinking skills and cross-cultural empathy, gaining deeper insight into how people live under diverse political systems. She further expanded this perspective while studying abroad in Hong Kong, where she explored the intersection of language and global affairs.
She selected Dr. Zamira Abman as her Most Influential Faculty Member in recognition of Dr. Abman’s mentorship since her freshman year. From encouraging her to pursue a double major in CINTS, to guiding her through her Gilman Scholarship essays for the ISEP Exchange program, to supporting her in refining her resume and preparing for life after graduation, Dr. Abman’s guidance has been instrumental. In the CINTS 400 Capstone course, Dr. Abman challenged her to reflect on how her academic experiences at SDSU have shaped her development as a globally aware citizen. She also helped her discover a passion for public service—particularly in serving marginalized communities—and encouraged her to explore careers in government and law.
Overall, her experience in CINTS has strengthened her commitment to engaging with global politics and sustaining a lifelong curiosity about the world.
Russian Outstanding Graduating Senior
Spencer Neefe is graduating with a focus in Russian. He is passionate about exploring different cultures, ideas, and perspectives. In his free time, he enjoys reading and spending time with his dog. He hopes to pursue a career with the U.S. government.
Dr. Daria Shembel was one of the most significant influences on Spencer’s academic journey. He admired her ability to connect with students through patience and kindness, fostering a classroom environment that was not only a place of study but also one of engagement and inspiration. His experiences in her classroom shaped his understanding of what meaningful learning should be and contributed to both his academic and personal growth.
Like many students, Spencer occasionally felt the urge to skip class; however, Dr. Shembel’s guidance encouraged him to attend and strive for self-improvement, even on difficult days or when he felt unprepared. Each time he left her classroom, he felt improved—whether through gaining new knowledge, building confidence, or finding renewed motivation to grow.
Spencer will remain deeply grateful for her lasting impact and will carry her influence with him throughout his life. He regards Dr. Shembel as a gifted teacher who inspires, uplifts, and shares knowledge and wisdom with those who seek it.
Department Bookshelf
Coerced Liberation: Muslim Women in Soviet Tajikistan
Zamira Abman
2024
Postsocialist Memory in Contemporary German Culture
Kristin Rebien
2024
Sex Work in Contemporary Russia: A Cultural Perspective
Emily Schuckman-Matthews
2023
This Is What I Live For: An Afro-Italian Hip-Hop Memoir
Clarissa Clò
2023
Subject/Object and Beyond: Women in Early Modern France
Edith Benkov
2023
Germans of Waterloo Region
Mathias Schulze
2022
The Algerian War in Film Fifty Years Later, 2004-2012
Anne Donadey
2020
Statement of Solidarity
with the people of Ukraine
The Department of European Studies strongly condemns Russia’s unlawful and unprovoked invasion of the sovereign nation of Ukraine. We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine for whom this war will take an enormous toll and join those around the world, including in Russia and Belarus, who are urging for an end to this war of aggression.
with Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders
The Department of European Studies stands in solidarity with Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. We stand against racist misogyny, gendered racism, and hate. We encourage everyone to Sign the Pledge.
with Black Lives Matter and Against Anti-Blackness
SDSU’s College of Arts and Letters stands in solidarity with our Black communities. We denounce racism in any form and violence against Black people, and we stand firm in our belief that Black lives matter. We encourage everyone to Sign the Pledge.
As a community of university faculty and staff, it is our duty to actively support
and advocate for solutions to systemic racism across our nation, the world, and our
campus. Read the full statement.