BIO:
Robert "Bobby" Barbero is a graduate student in the United Nations and Global Policy Studies (UNMA) program in the Department of Political Science at Rutgers University - New Brunswick. Born in Quezon City, Philippines, Bobby spent ten memorable years in Abu Dhabi (أبو ظبي), United Arab Emirates, before moving to the United States in 2017. Having lived in three different regions of the world has shaped his open-minded outlook, curiosity about global issues, and passion for international cooperation.
Bobby currently works as a Unit Administrator for the Cultural Centers at Rutgers University, where he supports daily operations, student engagement, and community-centered programming. He enjoys being part of a space that promotes inclusion, cross-cultural understanding, and meaningful conversations. These values connect closely with his academic and career goals.
He holds an Associate of Arts in Global/International Relations from Middlesex College and later graduated cum laude from Rider University with a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies and a minor in Spanish. He is currently pursuing his Master of Arts in Political Science: United Nations and Global Policy Studies (UNMA) and plans to continue at Rutgers Law School, where he hopes to focus on international law and global governance.
Outside of academics and work, Bobby enjoys going to the gym, baking/latte art, and staying active in sports. A former volleyball player for Rider University, he now continues his passion for the sport as an intramural volleyball team captain at Rutgers. As a UNMA Student Ambassador, Bobby looks forward to connecting with students, answering questions about the program, and sharing his experiences from living abroad to navigating graduate school. He is passionate about diplomacy, education, human rights, and helping others find their pathways!