When did you realize you wanted an international career?

Due to my upbringing as a Bangladeshi American, I knew from a young age that I was interested in international relations. Traveling to Bangladesh, as well as other countries within South Asia and the Middle East, I felt compelled to align my future goals with international affairs, development, vulnerable populations, etc. However, I knew that I wanted to specifically work at the U.S. Department of State (State) while I was in college following a summer internship in Washington D.C.

What is your current position? What did the path look like to get there?

I am currently on a detail assignment with the National Security Council as the Director of Resilience and Good Governance within the Development, Global Health, and Humanitarian Response Development. My home agency is with State where I am the South and Central Asia Team Lead for the Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations. My path to State is directly tied to my time at the Elliott School. Being in D.C., I was able to intern at State while in grad school to build connections and experiences to make my way back to State. Also, during my State internship, I learned about the Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF). Luckily, Elliott’s GCSC [now called Graduate Student Services] offered several sessions on how to apply for the PMF which truly prepared me for both the written and in person assessments.

What part of your experience at the Elliott School best prepared you for post-grad career?

Compared to other graduate programs, I feel that the Elliott School best prepared me for practical career experiences. The program, especially the skills courses, was designed to prepare you for situations and discussions you are likely to have in international affairs careers. For example, instead of writing a 50-page paper on X topic, we learned how to draft info memos, relevant background papers, and bottom-line up-front statements. I attribute my writing skills to my U.S. Security Policy Making and Writing for International Affairs Professionals courses. I also learned a lot in the Formal Briefing class because we have to brief several colleagues every day ranging from peers to senior leadership. One of the most valuable skills I learned from Elliott is how to identify what information is required for each audience and what is most pertinent to highlight.

What advice do you have for prospective students who are considering a graduate degree in international relations?

I think it is important to follow your interests and passions when it comes to your studies and career. International affairs is a very broad discipline so it gives you the freedom to create your own journey. Sometimes your experiences and classes may vary and may not seem like you have a focus, but it is much easier to connect the dots backwards than you’d think.

What did you value most about living and studying in D.C.?

The best part about living and studying in D.C. is the amount of access you get. This access includes being able to physically be in D.C. to apply and work for various government, non-profit, and think tank institutions during the day and attending classes at night. Access also includes the ability to be in the city and connect with people in the positions you’re most interested in applying for. The Elliott school is extra special because of its location! Who doesn’t love only a five-minute commute between the office and class? Lastly, access to all of the professional and fun international events around D.C. is a plus! These events are great networking opportunities, as well as opportunities to hear from some of the best minds and learn more on interesting topics that are useful for your studies

If you would be any type of food, what food would you be?

I think I would be a charcuterie board (one with lots of cheese and fruit!). I have to wear a lot of different hats between my professional and personal life so I offer a range of textures and flavors that balance healthy and fun aspects of life!

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The #ElliottProud profile series is managed by the Elliott School Office of Graduate Admissions and highlights graduate program alumni to answer common questions posed by prospective, incoming, and current students. For more information on this series or to submit questions, e-mail the Office of Graduate Admissions at esiagrad@gwu.edu.

The views expressed by students profiled do not necessarily represent those of organizations they work for, are affiliated with, or the Elliott School of International Affairs.