Yazen Zarour developed a deep interest in international relations after living in Palestine for five years, where his personal experiences shaped his passion for diplomacy, justice, and Middle East politics. Yazen graduated summa cum laude from the Ohio State University in 2024 with a B.A. in International Relations and Political Science, a minor in Arabic, and a specialization in Middle East politics. In fall 2023, he was selected as a John Glenn Fellow and interned in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he wrote foreign policy memos and supported legislative work on foreign affairs. He later interned with A New Policy, an organization advocating for a U.S. foreign policy rooted in human rights, peace, and accountability in the Middle East.

His academic and professional interests center on U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, with a focus on creating more just, people-centered approaches that promote long-term peace and stability. Outside of politics, Yazen enjoys working out, swimming, and spending time with friends at local cafés. He is especially excited to explore Washington, D.C.’s diverse food scene.