Katy Schindel
Class of 2026
Hometown: Munich, Germany
Education: Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU Munich). I graduated with my Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and Sociology.
Academic & Research Interests: The German - US relationship, specifically in relation to international security; far-right threats to democracy in both regions
Work Experience: I've spent the past year at APCO Worldwide, gaining substantial political and corporate consulting experience with various international Fortune 500 companies, tech firms, and political stakeholders. I provided market and competitor analysis, policy research, stakeholder mapping, and geopolitical risk analysis, and assisted with major political events like the Munich Security Conference. Last year, post-graduation, I spent some time as a Fellow at the Friedrich Ebert Foundation here in DC, where I monitored U.S. and German policy changes and legislative issues, created social media content, assisted with event management for political panels, and published articles on political developments for FES. During my undergraduate studies, I completed research internships at the National Academy of Public Administration in Washington, DC, and the Center for Applied Policy Research in Munich, which laid the foundation for my policy research and analysis skills and my understanding of U.S. and European policy processes.
Why I chose MAGES: I think that we currently find ourselves, once again, at a fork in the road regarding the future of our free world and global democracy. With dangerous far-right movements on the rise again in the West and ongoing conflicts in the East, I believe the only sustainable way forward is with a strong, active transatlantic relationship. For this, we need a new generation of transatlantic leaders – and I’m confident that MAGES is the perfect place for someone who aspires to become this. On a less dramatic note - I love how customizable the program is, as I want to dip my toe in a variety of topics, from International Relations to Business. And, last but definitely not least: I felt so welcomed by MAGES + GU staff, professors, and alumni from the very first second I toured GU. And that feeling of community goes a long way.