The Elliott School Fall 2022 incoming class represents a diverse and enthusiastic group of students, joining the Elliott School from across the U.S. and around the world! One thing they all have in common is a passion for travel, meeting new people, and visiting new places.

We asked some of our incoming Elliott School students to introduce themselves, and share a memory from a recent trip.

Leonard Cisneros

International Development Studies

“Volunteering in Tijuana, Mexico, has been my most rewarding experience to date. Running a free Primary Healthcare Clinic led me to apply to the Elliott School’s International Development Studies program. I am excited to meet my cohort and see the great things we accomplish!”

Jamie Eiseman

Security Policy Studies

“I was a teacher in South Korea for a little over a year. Unfortunately COVID hit so I didn’t get to explore too much, but I’d love to go back one day. My favorite trip while I was there was to Busan for Lunar New Year.”

Olivia Faulkner

International Affairs

“Myself along with 3 other members of Merrimack’s Editorial Board were lucky enough to attend the National Associated Collegiate Press Conference which was held in Long Beach, California in March. While most of our time was spent at the conference, we also got to enjoy restaurants in the area and went to a Lakers-Clippers game at the Crypto Arena!”

Yagmur A. Fitzwater

Middle East Studies

“I am a travel addict! Originally coming from Turkey, I have lived in Canada, Germany, and now the U.S., and have traveled to many more countries. I last traveled to my home country, Turkey with my husband, and visited the fascinating city of Istanbul and the beautiful Turkish Riviera! I learned that there is always something new to discover, even in one’s home country, and that the renewed perspective one gains with every travel is truly invaluable.”

Benjamin Souza

Security Policy Studies

“I am Benjamin Souza from Boston, Massachusetts. While in undergrad, I traveled to a few European countries as part of our Model U.N. team. One trip in particular was my trip to Edinburgh, Scotland. While there, I met people from around the world competing at this conference, while also becoming exposed to various countries’ perspectives on the United States. I also of course learned the proper way to enjoy a pub.”

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The #IncomingElliott profile series is managed by the Elliott School Office of Graduate Admissions and highlights newly enrolling students to answer common questions posed by prospective 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.”