Since middle school, I have always been intrigued by foreign affairs, policy, and international relations. Therefore, this summer I decided to apply to a two-week international affairs and development course with the New York Times. The course was in Washington, DC, where I met many interesting people and had the opportunity to explore a new city.
My class specifically focused on how the government functions and the processes in place to keep American foreign policy working. Luckily, I was able to listen to decision-makers and visit the venues in which these decisions are made. Throughout the program, I had the amazing opportunity to speak with experts and take field trips around the city. Speaking to staff members on Capitol Hill, diplomats in embassies, and foreign aid workers in USAID was eye-opening. I was especially impressed talking with one of the New York Times’ White House correspondents; she even shared her experiences traveling on Air Force One! The dedication and mission driving their jobs inspired me to potentially pursue a career in public policy or journalism.
Inside the classroom, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in new topics and learn from my professors and peers. Just like at Groton, the class format was discussion-based; I listened to myriad ideas on the USA’s role in an ever more globalized world. From counterterrorism in the Middle East to uniquely American issues, such as gun control, all of my peers expressed diverse opinions on these issues.
For a final project, I had to write a policy memo addressing an urgent global issue from the perspective of American policymakers. I decided to write about the grain crisis in North Africa, which has become exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine, and what I believe should be the USA’s response. After two weeks of intense research, I drafted three potential action plans with elements of foreign aid, democracy promotion, intervention in Ukrainian ports, and collaboration with other democratic nations to develop key infrastructure. This project was the perfect opportunity to use all that I learned throughout the program in practice.
Outside of the classroom, I was able to explore every corner of DC and soon fell in love with the city. In the afternoons, my classmates and I would spend hours going to restaurants, picnics on the Mall, or simply admiring the grand monuments. I especially enjoyed getting stuck in a downpour at the Lincoln Memorial and appreciating the sunset next to the Potomac River.
These two weeks in DC were both exhilarating and thought-provoking. One always grows from stepping out of their comfort zone and listening to people different from oneself. This program proved to be just that: an opportunity to become more knowledgeable about a particular area of interest and better understand diverse ideas on global politics.