Brad JohnsonBeing an IWP research intern has provided me with a variety of engaging and challenging activities to hone my skills as a researcher while teaching me a great deal about statecraft. Taking part in real research under practitioners gave me a real sense of how research deliverables are made and what it takes to create a publishable paper. Additionally, my personal research project allowed me the ability to publish a paper on a subject I might not otherwise have explored in the same depth.
I have met a variety of knowledgeable and skilled practitioners who have helped me refine my career goals regarding foreign service and diplomacy. It is quite normal to attend lectures and seminars from accomplished people in a variety of international-facing government careers, from diplomacy to intelligence. These talks definitely helped in making me more knowledgeable about how the job works and how to get involved.
IWP has given me a new perspective on how important it is to not only be a good employee in whatever field I decide to work, but also how important it is to become well-versed in why that job must be done. Western Moral and Political Thought, taught by Dr. McCranor, is an excellent introduction to what the U.S. strives for and why. It is necessary to know why America strives for liberal democracy in order to make policy for our liberal democracy.
IWP has helped me learn about intelligence and diplomacy while refining my skills and giving me the necessary background to become a good policy maker.
Brad Johnson
Texas Christian University
Research Intern