As a Junior studying Political Science and U.S. National Security Studies at Christopher Newport University, I was honored to receive my acceptance into The Institute of World Politics Summer 2024 Internship Program. I knew that I wanted to be a part of this program, and after completing this internship, it solidified my desire to pursue a professional career in national security.
I had the privilege of working with Professor Glenn Corn, a 34-year veteran of the U.S. intelligence and foreign affairs communities, by compiling research on various topics regarding Russia, specifically Russia on Ukrainian Critical Infrastructure. Working with a professional with as much experience in national security as Professor Corn was incomparable. Thanks to him, I was able to not only expand my knowledge on these topics but also take away a greater passion and respect for the field of national security.
A significant component of this internship involved taking the online graduate course IWPO 627: International Relations, Statecraft, and Integrated Strategy. This course introduced the field of international relations through theory and practice, as well as the various methods of statecraft and how they can be integrated into national strategy.
Although it is difficult to choose just one, my favorite part of the internship was the people I was able to work alongside. My fellow interns were impressive, intelligent, and passionate about their studies. Each contributed a unique perspective to the cohort which made each day exciting, as I was able to not only learn from professional staff but from my peers as well. The IWP staff was welcoming from the beginning to the end and made me feel like a valuable member of this program. Going into my senior year of undergrad, I feel more confident in my studies and look forward to carrying what I learned at IWP into my future career.
Courtney Mulvihill
IWP National Security and International Affairs Research Intern, Summer 2024
From Christopher Newport University