Liliana Bollinger
Liliana Bollinger (she/her) graduated from UCLA with a BA in Political Science and a minor in Arabic and Islamic Studies. After studying in Morocco during her undergrad, she became interested in the ways communities have and continue to combat colonial power and influence, particularly how the Muslim and Arab worlds resist European/American imperialization and violence. Her specific areas of interest are the Maghreb, Iraq, and Palestine. She is also curious about the ways academia has and continues to aid and support violent colonial pursuits in this region, specifically the question: What role do academics, scholars, and academic institutions play in imperial wars? As a FLAS award recipient, Liliana is prioritizing the study of Arabic during her Masters, and is excited about the opportunity to deepen her understanding of Islam and Muslim cultures around the world. She is ecstatic to be working with such an inspiring faculty and incredible cohort.