Where are you from and what were you doing before enrolling in graduate school?

I am from the suburbs of Chicago and studied psychology and biology at Denison University in Granville, Ohio. Before coming to USC I completed a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine and the following year was an Au Pair in Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, France for another year. 

How did you learn of the degree program and why did you choose USC Annenberg?

After multiple experiences in exchange programs, from studying abroad in New Zealand to my Fulbright experience in Ukraine, I started researching degrees that would teach me skills on how to run effective exchange programs and how to become a diplomat, or Foreign Service Officer (FSO). This research led me to USC Annenberg. I applied to multiple schools across the U.S., with heavy emphasis in Washington, D.C. However, USC Annenberg’s degree in Public Diplomacy is one of a kind, in that other graduate programs did not solely focus on this speciality. I wanted to engage in diplomacy through a Western perspective, rather than studying in D.C. where I knew I may work one day. I was also persuaded by my professor and retired FSO Robert Banks at USC, who answered all of my questions about the program and convinced me that I would gain a different perspective learning about diplomacy here than anywhere else. The degree is also more than just studying, because there are so many opportunities to meet and work with current diplomats, research diplomacy, and intern at organizations in L.A. that could teach me the practical skills needed to one day be an FSO. 

What have you enjoyed the most about the degree program?

I have enjoyed the friendships I have gained with students from all over the world and the supplementary opportunities I have gained by being in this program. These opportunities include interning for the Center on Public Diplomacy, International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles, and the U.S. Department of State. I gained invaluable practical skills through these internships that I can carry forward into my career. My professors have taken me under their wing to ensure my success by connecting me with the current visiting diplomat in residence at USC, attending meetings with high level diplomats (like meeting the current Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs), and networking at multiple events or galas. USC Annenberg also offers a two-week program to Washington, D.C. where we networked with nonprofits, governmental organizations, and think tanks. These opportunities are invaluable to me as I continue my journey in the world of Public Diplomacy.