Current Intern
Jacqueline Bucaro | Georgetown University, School of Foreign Service, Regional and Comparative Studies, BA`25
Research Title: “Islam and the Latin American Diaspora: Exploring Cultural Connections”
Research Description: In the United States, Latino Americans (defined as Americans with heritage in South and Central America) are converting to Islam faster than any other demographic group. However, in Latin America, this pattern is not mirrored; most Muslim communities that exist are based in immigrant enclaves from Muslim countries. For this research, I would explore the cultural values that draw Latin Americans to Islam and why Islam is more appealing than their previous religion, which is often Christianity. Furthermore, I would explore why these values do not lead to similar conversion trends in Latin America proper, whether it be political reasons, social stigma, or otherwise.
Testimonials from Past Interns
Fall 2023
Wyatt Flicker | University of Delaware, International Relations, Ancient Greek and Roman Studies, History, BA`26
“Prophetic Politics: Islamic Readings of Plato’s Republic“
“My internship with the Rumi Forum was an excellent opportunity to hone my research skills, deepen my knowledge of my field, and gain experience in formal academic writing. The staff at the Forum were incredibly accommodating with my schedule and proved an invaluable resource in constructing my research paper. For students who are interested in research or work in interfaith dialogue, I cannot recommend the Rumi Forum highly enough.”
Summer 2023
Liam Adamczyk | Boston College, History and Theology, BA`25
“Loss of Identity: The Religious Passiveness of American Youth”
Spring 2023
Millicent Caughey | Duke University, Religious Studies and History, BA`25
“Faith and the Law: The Extent of Religious Freedom in Modern America”
Fall 2022
Jose Serna | Augustana University, Government and Sociology, BA`24
“Chaplains in Healthcare Settings: Exploring Their Roles and Resources“
Summer 2022
Dana Sultan | The George Washington University, Middle East Studies, BA`24
“Abraham and Covenants in the Quran: A Scriptural Analysis with Biblical References”
Spring 2022
Sascha Shroff | American University, SIS, International Studies, BA`24
Ayse Pirge | The College of William and Mary, English, BA`21
“European Identities in the Context of Orientalism and Cultural Ambiguities“
Summer 2021
Bailey Haraburda | The Catholic University of America, Sociology, BA`23, MA`24
“I Was a Stranger and You Welcomed Me: The Role of Faith-Based Organizations in Immigration”
Spring 2021
Mona Elsaai | Emory University, Political Science, BA`19
Yusuf Mirasyedi | River Hill High School `22
“Working with Rumi Forum was a great opportunity for me. I gained valuable work experience and enjoyed working with Rumi Forum employees and the other interns.”
Fall 2020
Elena Freeman | University of South Dakota, International Studies and French Studies, BA`20
Jared Fyfe | Virginia Tech, Psychology, BA`22