Originally from Morton Grove, Illinois, Irena Petryk, ’28, earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Northwestern University and a master’s degree in international relations from the University of Oxford. Petryk, who was named a 2023 Rhodes Scholar while finishing up her undergraduate studies, has a deep interest in US foreign policy and has ambitions to one day help shape those policies to create a stronger and more cooperative global community.

Tell us a bit about your background and professional path.

During my undergraduate studies, I grew interested in the economic dimensions of foreign policy, which I pursued through internships at USAID, the Department of State, and the White House. I further explored this interest during my master’s degree as a research fellow with the Oxford China Policy Lab. 

What key experiences do you feel have shaped you?

My master’s thesis, which examined the effectiveness of controls on semiconductor-related exports to China, taught me a lot about the interplay between trade policy and national security, and it was great practice in managing a large, complex project. 

What motivated your decision to go to law school?

I would like to deepen my understanding of the law—especially international law—and become a practicing attorney, with the goal of one day shaping foreign policy that addresses global challenges and fosters international cooperation.

Why did you choose the University of Chicago Law School?

I chose the Law School for its focus on law and economics and its intellectual excellence. I’m also from the Chicagoland area, so I was excited to be close to family and childhood friends. 

What do you hope/plan to do with your legal education?

I would love to work at the intersection of law and foreign policy, either at a federal agency or an international organization. I’m especially interested in how legal frameworks shape economic statecraft. 

What are you most looking forward to about being a law student?

Making new friends! I’m excited to meet people who share similar interests and to learn from their experiences and perspectives.

Any interesting hobbies or interests?

I love baking! I make bread, cookies, cakes, or pastries at least twice a week and am always looking for people to give them away to. I even applied to the Great British Bake Off while I was in the UK (but was sadly not selected).

What is a “fun fact” about you?

I eat waffles with sour cream and sugar.