Presently, I am a doctoral candidate, writing up my thesis at De Montfort University in England. My thesis is a comparative analyzes of the United States and France’s political and legal institutions on issues of human rights and security during intrastate conflict in Africa. The research identifies the impact of law and the policy dimensions associated with the application and enforcement of law. This informs an understanding of how state and international law interact simultaneously in foreign policy to effect humanitarian and conflict resolution concerns. Prior to attending De Montfort University for doctoral studies I was enrolled at the University of Birmingham on a part-time basis of study (research) and teaching where I also earned my MA in International Studies in 2006. I earned my BA in political science and international relations from the University of Maryland (UMBC). During my time with UMBC I was an active member of the Model United Nations and in my senior year was selected to sit on MUN’s Historical Security Council panel on women and conflict. After graduation I was co-advisor for the Model UN team and in 2002 was a Research Fellow with the United Nations. I hold a professional certificate in higher education at the Associate Level from the University of Birmingham, as well as Certificates in International Humanitarian Law, International Human Rights, and French