Meet one of our new faculty members, Dr. Bryan Barber, Lecturer of International Affairs.
What attracted you to UGA?
SPIA is a large community of experts on politics and international affairs, and I wanted to contribute my humble sliver of expertise to this community. Additionally, I had always loved visiting the state of Georgia, and am particularly fond of its history and nature.
Where did you grow up?
Oklahoma City OK
What was your favorite part of your college experience?
It was meeting classmates and professors from all over the world, and with all sorts of experiences.
What is your favorite food?
chicken parmigiana
Please tell us one fun fact about you.
For several years, I competed as an amateur sumo wrestler.
What is one goal you have for yourself for the next year?
In the next year, I’m planning to design and hopefully implement a new human security study abroad course to Japan for UGA students.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?
It was publishing my book, Japan’s Relations with Muslim Asia. I’m proud to have filled a gap in the literature on a significant relationship in international affairs. If anyone wants to research Japan and the Muslim world, they inevitably will encounter my book as an essential source, and I’m proud to make such a mark in the field.
Who inspires you in your research or career?
My doctoral advisor, Dr. Mohaiddin Mesbahi. He has always encouraged me with my career, and beyond that he is an incredibly gifted lecturer.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
I always wanted to be able to turn red stop lights green at will.
What advice do you have for SPIA students?
Never hesitate to seek your professors out, even just for a chat. Don’t forget that you are the client, and we provide the service for you. It is up to you how much you want to get out of this service.
