Torri Gragg ’26
Q: Where did you study as an undergraduate? What was your major(s)?
I graduated from UNC Wilmington with a B.A. in international studies.
Q: What do you like about UNC’s graduate program in Russian and East European Studies?
I appreciate the emphasis on language learning and interdisciplinary studies.
Q: Why did you choose to specialize in this region of the globe?
I developed am interest in this region during my undergraduate studies, specifically while learning the Russian language.
Q: Do you have work and/or study experience in the region?
I completed my bachelor’s degree during COVID, so my study abroad experience was through virtual reality lenses.
Q: What are your research interests?
I am interested in contemporary Russia, military/intelligence capabilities, and U.S.-Russian relations since the Cold War.
Q: What would you like to do after you graduate?
I would like to work within the U.S. intelligence community.
Q: What are your hobbies? What do you like doing in your free time?
All my free time is spent with my husband and two daughters!
Q:What is your favorite visual reminder of the region and why? (this can be a photograph you took, painting, poster, still from a movie, or any other visual piece that you would like to share; please email separately)
The Red Square. It was one of the first photographs I remember seeing of Russia and reminds me where my studies began so many years ago. It is also a beautiful and culturally significant location to the history and people of Russia.