International Development Studies

Hayley Farrell, 2022

Honors Thesis title: “Globalization and Developing Economies: Implications for Ghana's Poultry Farmers”

Hayley aimed to examine how the poultry industry in Ghana has been impacted by imported chicken and other global factors. Her best piece of advice is to take advantage of the many opportunities available at UCLA beyond just completing coursework! Read more about her time in Ghana here.

Oluwadamilare (“Damilare”) Oyebobola, 2025

Honors Thesis title: “How IMF Austerity Exacerbated Inequality in Nigeria ”

Damilare used her curricular studies as a foundation to examine how IMF austerity exacerbated inequality in Nigeria [and explored] the role of elite decision making, colonial legacies and political dynamics in shaping the country’s experience with Structural Adjustment Programs. She did internships with Strong Starts for Success, Entrepreneurs Futures Network, and Northwestern Mutual! Read more about her experiences here.

Aya Ibrahim, 2026

Honors Thesis title: “Roots Uprooted: Environmental Degradation as a Tool of Occupation in Palestine”

Aya explored how environmental degradation and control, particularly of olive groves and water resources, serve as tools of Israeli territorial expansion and Palestinian displacement in the West Bank, winning both a Dean’s Prize for Excellence in Research and Creativity, as well as the UCLA Library Second Prize at Undergraduate Research Week! Read more about her work here.

• Be officially declared as an IDS major
• Completion of any 2 core IDS courses: (IDS 110, M120, 130, 140). Students may petition to apply with only 1 core course complete.
• Minimum 3.5 GPA for all upper division IDS courses
• Must have secured a faculty advisor
• Submit the IDS Honors Application and have your advisor complete the faculty form.

*Petitions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis