Katarina Zivanovic , 2011, Serbia

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, Third Secretary - Belgrade, Serbia 

Why I chose Fletcher: Serbia is a small country facing numerous challenges; foreign policy is thus of great importance for its future. Serbian diplomats are obliged to be involved in many different fields, thus broad knowledge and education is essential. I believe that The Fletcher School provides precisely this multidisciplinary training. I was particularly attracted to the school's focus on security, political, economic, business, and legal aspects of international issues, and how to practically implement these into successful actions. I was able to tailor my education to my particular interests. That is a unique preparation for foreseen and unforeseen situations that may occur in the career of a diplomat.

How I plan to use my experience at Fletcher to make a difference in the world: My particular focus was on security policy. Professional and life experiences in a region of constant turmoil have contributed to that interest. The first memories I have are of war, insecurity, and uncertainty for the future. I always had an urge to be involved in creating security and to not be a powerless observer. I view the MALD program at Fletcher as an opportunity to fill the gaps in my knowledge so that theory gives me background for policy. Gaining knowledge from one of the most prestigious schools in this field will help me be a more active participant and leader within my own country.

Favorite author:

Bela Hamvas

Favorite movie:

Rosemary’s Baby

Favorite city:

Florence, Italy

Global issue that brought you to Fletcher:

New security challenges: insurgency and terrorist acts by non-state organizations

Thesis topic

How was Hezbollah able to enter the political process in Lebanon without giving up its militia?

Fields of Study

  • International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
  • International Security Studies

Activities involved in at Fletcher

  • Fletcher UN Club
  • Fletcher Women in Security
  • International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Club

Education before Fletcher

  • MA, Foreign Affairs, International organizations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • BA, International Relations/Global and National Security, University of Belgrade

Experience before Fletcher

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Third Secretary - Republic of Serbia
  • NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Research Assistant - Brussels, Belgium
  • Naval Postgraduate School, Leadership Development and Education for Sustained Peace (LDESP) Program, Centre for Civil Military Relations, Instructor - Monterey, CA

Languages

  • Serbian
  • English
  • Balkan languages

Summer Internship

  • INMA Foundation - Beirut, Lebanon