Class of 2013 Student Profiles

Bernardo Diaz, 2013, United States

Why I chose Fletcher:  I chose Fletcher because of its strong sense of community. As a prospective student, I felt that Fletcher was a unique graduate school. It had a very welcoming environment, ideal to embark on a personal, academic and professional journey. You are embraced for your uniqueness. Your diverse views are heard with respect. The Fletcher community approaches this experience with an open mind, and it is a refreshing change to a world with biases and preconceived notions. In and outside of class, you embark in rich dialogue with your peers and professors, constantly seeking innovative solutions to the pressing issues of the 21st century. In this fast-paced, rapidly changing world, it is great to have a place like Fletcher where you get to learn from fascinating people from around the world and form lasting friendships.

On the international life I see for myself after Fletcher: After Fletcher, I will be joining the U.S. Foreign Service serving in different regions of the world. Fletcher is providing me with a strong framework to analyze pressing foreign policy issues affecting not only the U.S. but also the entire world. The world is dealing with a fragile global economic systems, terrorism and nuclear proliferation. Fletcher is preparing me with the analytical tools to tackle these issues from a theoretical and practical perspective. Moreover, I am able to build relationships with people from around the world, who will be the thought leaders in their countries. Fletcher is a great place to begin strengthening ties amongst our diverse cultures.