Briana Winslow is an alumna of the Master of International Policy and Practice program at the Elliott School, concentrating in Middle East Studies. For her undergraduate studies, Briana attended the United States Air Force Academy, graduating in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and with minors in both Arabic and Spanish. She is an active duty captain in the U.S. Air Force, completing the Foreign Area Officer Fellowship, and will continue her military service after graduation with assignments in the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility, spanning the Middle East and Central Asia.

What path led you to apply to graduate school? Why did you choose the Elliott School?

My career in the Air Force led me to study at the Elliott School. I was selected to become a Foreign Area Officer, specializing in the Middle East. As part of my training pipeline, the Air Force sponsors regionally-focused graduate education and I am fortunate to be studying at GW, learning from world-class professors.

What has been your most challenging academic experience at the Elliott School and how did you overcome it?

My first semester at Elliott, I signed up for the Gender in the Middle East course, taught by Dr. Attiya Ahmad. As a woman who is going to be living and working in the Middle East, I figured it would be an interesting class. I quickly discovered that I was out of my league in an anthropology class having zero anthropology background, and surrounded by intimidatingly smart PhD candidates. It was tough, and early into the class I even considered dropping it, but I am so glad I stuck it out! The experience was good practice in getting comfortable being uncomfortable, and not being afraid to ask questions. I ended up learning so much from the course, from my incredible classmates, and from Dr. Ahmad.

Where do you currently work, intern or volunteer, and how does it fit in with your career goals?

I’m an active duty officer in the U.S. Air Force. At the moment, I’m lucky to be able to dedicate myself to full-time study but after graduation, I’ll serve as a Foreign Area Officer with projected overseas assignments in the Middle East.

Now that you’re an alum, what do you wish you knew during the graduate application process?

Don’t worry too much if you don’t think you fit the mold of the “ideal candidate.” Just be yourself on the application! Everyone brings something different to the table. Even if your life experiences don’t seem directly related to your studies, they inform your worldview and will contribute to the diversity of thought in your cohort.

What is your favorite place to visit in D.C. and why?

My favorite place to visit in DC is Rock Creek Park! I love walking my dogs Stubby and Josh on the scenic trails. It’s a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city.