Throughout my summer as a research intern at The Institute of World Politics, I have been exposed to new critical thinking methods and have learned things about statecraft, international politics, and intelligence practices that are hard to come by at any other internship program. The staff and professors took considerable time out of their days to impart the lessons they have learned through years in professional environments that are impossible to replicate.
The internship allowed me to work with Dr. Christopher C. Harmon, an experienced instructor on matters of counterinsurgency and counterterrorism. During my short time with Dr. Harmon, I learned extensively about the Maoist insurgency in Nepal and the career of General Edward Lansdale – neither of which I had any previous knowledge of. It was a pleasure to work with such a knowledgeable and kind professional.
I also had the opportunity to see areas of D.C. that I had never seen before, even as a native of Northern Virginia. I was able to visit the embassies of Morocco, Austria, Portugal, Chile, and Hungary. Visiting the embassies of these nations and learning about the history of their relations with the United States was an unforgettable experience, not to mention the private tours granted to us by the Justice Department and Pentagon, which were equally as remarkable.
My time supporting the Development team once a week has been insightful as well. I would have never known so much work goes into raising funds for a graduate school. Working for Sade Nixon has been both enjoyable and educational, which is exactly how an internship should be.
The Institute of World Politics has truly given me the ultimate experience and has prepared me adequately for my senior year of undergraduate studies and a future career.
Blaise Liess
IWP National Security and International Affairs Research Intern, Summer 2024
From Mercyhurst University
Learn More About IWP Internships
IWP President Amb. Aldona Wos with Blaise Liess.