Ian Cruz
Class of 2026
Hometown: The Woodlands, Texas / Lisbon, Portugal
Education: Georgetown University - B.S. in Foreign Service with a major in International Politics
Academic & Research Interests: Transatlantic security, Elections, U.S. National Security
Work Experience: During my time in DC, I completed internships in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, where I focused on combatting China's influence across the world. I also served as the Border Security & Immigration intern at The Heritage Foundation, studying the electoral and societal impacts of migration in the U.S. and Europe. Additionally, I interned at the America First Policy Institute, researching issues in national and homeland security. Most recently, I interned at the White House in the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy, supporting a signature part of the President’s agenda.
Why I chose MAES: MAES distinguishes the School of Foreign Service from any academic program in the world as it provides unparalleled access to faculty and leaders who are directly impacting the transatlantic relationship. The tight-knit community underscores the commitment to the success of every student. As a Portuguese-American, I am particularly excited for the opportunity to further explore how the United States and Europe can work together as we face unprecedented threats to our freedom and security.