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International Affairs - European Concentration, Minor in Spanish, Minor in Public Service and Administration - French Consulate, Atlanta, GA

How did you hear about your internship?

Dr. Minor suggested we look into Consulates, also my friend had completed an internship with the French Consulate the year prior and gave a positive review.

What has been the most valuable (or favorite) part of the experience?

I have learned so much about the art of diplomacy in the work that the staff accomplishes at the consulate. While I was nervous the first day, the diplomats working at the consulate were incredibly welcoming and excited to share what work each of them specializes in. I have been able to gain a lot of hands-on experience while making actual contributions to the work of the consulate. I have seen firsthand the positive impact they have made on the community, whether it be in honoring WWII veterans or sponsoring community events to promote Franco-American friendship.

How will this help you in the future?

I hope to work for the State Department as a Foreign Service Officer, so learning the operations of a consulate is invaluable experience. Aside from the technical aspect of interning at a consulate is the cross-cultural skills have I gained. Learning to navigate situations with those who do not share your first language or societal norms is vital to diplomatic work and is a skill everyone should acquire in a world of increasing globalization and interconnectedness.