Hometown: Myrtle Beach, SC

Education: University of Lynchburg; Major: International Relations and Security Studies; Minors: German, Political Science, History

Academic & Research Interests: Democracy and Authoritarianism; Foreign Policy; Security Studies; Europe and Russia

Why I chose MAGES: While I hadn’t planned on pursuing a Master’s Degree immediately following my undergraduate studies, I chose to apply to MAES after a former professor of mine, Dr. Marek Payerhin, encouraged me to do so. I believe that he could see my passion regarding European and Russian affairs and he’s helped me to further realize this. Upon being accepted into the program, it just felt right, academically and professionally. My goal is to become a Foreign Service Officer and, hopefully, a professor after that. In this sense, I know that Georgetown is the right decision for me. Dr. Payerhin could see this, so why shouldn’t I?