Rania Zaied is a Ph.D. candidate in Communication at George Mason University and the 2025 winner of the university’s Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition. Her research focuses on media representations of marginalized communities, with a particular emphasis on how Muslims are portrayed in comedic media. Her dissertation examines the impact of these representations on Muslim audiences—work she successfully distilled and presented during the 3MT competition at Mason, and at the Council of Southern Graduate Schools Regional 3MT Competition.
Rania’s academic interests span interpersonal, intercultural, and nonverbal communication. “In my daily life when I am meeting people from different cultures, the first thing that comes to mind is what I know about intercultural communication and how to be culturally sensitive and culturally relative." These, intercultural communication plays a central role in both her academic work and everyday life. She applies interpersonal communication strategies within her close circles to navigate conflict and complex conversations.
“I am always thinking about interpersonal communication and how I want to handle conflict or have difficult conversations.”
Meanwhile, nonverbal communication proved especially critical in high-stakes settings like the 3MT competition, where clarity and delivery are essential.
Lead up to the Three Minute Thesis Competition (3MT)
Rania’s interest in participating in 3MT began informally, sparked by a conversation with friends in which she found herself struggling to clearly articulate her dissertation. “I rambled in a circle, not really getting anywhere”. Motivated to refine her message, Rania prepared through the Graduate Division’s Communication Academy workshops and a practice session led by Dr. Alyssa Bivins. These experiences helped her develop the concise and engaging presentation that ultimately earned her first place.
Looking Ahead
Currently serving as a graduate teaching assistant, Rania plans to pursue a career in academia, where she hopes to continue both her research and her passion for teaching.
“I absolutely love teaching; I do want to stay in academia...One hundred percent stay in the classroom. That is what I want.”