Biography
Fields of Study
- International Political Economy
- International Security Studies
Country
United States
Why Fletcher
I chose Fletcher because of the rigorous curriculum and caliber of its students. As I religiously searched Fletcher online, I was fascinated by the life and work experiences of current Fletcher students and alums. I saw a common thread - Fletcher admits students who have a clear sense of purpose and a determination to "know and change the world." Additionally, I was deeply impressed with Fletcher's sense of community and outreach extended to me throughout my graduate school search. On the other hand, Fletcher's rigorous curriculum stuck out to me. At times I wondered if Fletcher knew me better than myself (insert economic and quantitative requirements)! On a serious note, Fletcher knows what it takes to prepare the next generation of leaders and ensures its students are equipped to face the challenges of our time. With over 200 courses, I'm supposed to choose 16?! This is another feather in the cap for Fletcher--options! As a young professional, who will enter the US Foreign Service summer 2020, I wanted a graduate education that would provide an in-depth overview of diplomatic and security studies.
On the value of Map Your Future
I am a huge advocate of Map Your Future (I'm talking to all you undergrads)! Map Your Future is a unique program that allows you to acquire work experience, knowing you have a spot at Fletcher. Having the flexibility of Map Your Future allowed me the opportunity to intern at the State Department which ultimately led to a full-time position. During my two year work period, I acquired hard skills and unique experiences which allow me to contribute to our fruitful class discussions. Additionally, I believe having work experience and Fletcher lined up made me an attractive candidate to be selected for the Charles B. Rangel International Affairs Fellowship. So if you're set on Fletcher, looking to acquire work experience (and earn a few dollars working) apply to Map Your Future! Feel free to shoot me a note to further discuss Map Your Future!
On the Fletcher Global Perspective
Fletcher has broadened my global perspective by the quality of its students. I find myself sitting in class and to the one side of me, you have a student from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and to the left of me, you have a student from the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. As you can imagine, our conversations are lively, engaging, but most importantly, a learning experience. Through these dialogues I am able to broaden my horizon on complex issues and acquire multiple perspectives, right in the classroom. I have learned that it's totally okay not to be an expert and don't have the fear of "imposter syndrome" but rather be an active listener and share your unique experiences.
Activities involved in at Fletcher
- Diplomacy Club
- International Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Club
- Countering Violent Extremism Working Group
Education before Fletcher
- Bachelor of Arts, History and International Relations, Duquesne University
Experience before Fletcher
- Regional Coordinator, US Department of State, Washington, DC
- Program Support Specialist, US Department of State, Washington, DC
Languages
Spanish, English