As an American studying international politics abroad at City, University of London, the summer 2024 internship at The Institute of World Politics was the perfect opportunity to continue my studies, this time in my home country. I was initially introduced to IWP by my mentor, Kelley Deconciliis. As soon as I visited IWP with her in January of 2024, I knew that I wanted to be a part of this unique internship experience. The students and staff I met on my tour were equally personable and knowledgeable, welcoming me as soon as I stepped foot in the Institute. The opportunity to learn from professors who have practical experience in the field of national security and international relations was one that I could simply not pass up.
One of the most enriching experiences of the internship was the research project I participated in under Professor Jeff Johnson, alongside my fellow intern Christian Rockwell. Our research project was to aid Professor Johnson in modifying his course “Leadership in Future Operating Environments.” Our tasks were to construct questions about leadership qualities and experience, find and reach out to individuals with practical leadership in the field of national security, and conduct interviews with them about their experience. I had the opportunity to personally interview various leaders in the field of national security and foreign affairs, including the founder and president of IWP, Dr. John Lenczowski. These conversations were invaluable, as the insights they provided on leadership will be lessons and advice that I will implement throughout my journey in the professional world.
Throughout my time at IWP, I was enrolled in the online course “International Relations, Statecraft, and Integrated Strategy,” taught by Dr. John Callahan. This course provided me with the ability to further my research and knowledge in the field of International Relations, through fascinating coursework, readings, and wonderful discussions with my peers. I also had the chance to audit the in-person course, “Public Diplomacy,” taught by Dr. Caitlin Schindler. As many students in the class were esteemed professionals in the field of national security, learning from their personal experiences was an incredible experience that I will remember forever.
I also worked under Sebastian Smeureanu as a department intern for the media department at IWP. My duties were to support other interns in their research for an upcoming IWP podcast concerning the Abraham Accords and their impact on the Middle East, and I will also aid in the distribution of this podcast. Working with Sebastian Smeureanu was delightful, and he also helped with my research project, providing his skills and advice in recording and editing interviews.
As this internship comes to a close, I feel truly fortunate to have met all of the interns in this summer cohort. I have been surrounded by such brilliant, intelligent, and upstanding individuals. The future is bright for each and every one of them, and I cannot wait to see what they go on to accomplish. The learning experiences do not end upon leaving the classroom at IWP. It continues throughout every conversation and interaction you have with the interns, students, and faculty of IWP. I will remember my experience at IWP fondly, and the knowledge I have gained from my fellow interns and professors will undoubtedly guide me throughout my life and future career.
Alena Masloff
IWP National Security and International Affairs Research Intern, Summer 2024
From City, University of London
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