Hometown: Middleton, Idaho

Current City: Washington, DC

Why did you choose McCourt? Having a background in International Relations with prior government experience and a strong passion for bridge-building, I wanted to find a school that could adequately equip me with the technical skills required for in-depth data analysis while allowing me to use what I've learned during my professional experiences as well as pursue my specific field of interest. McCourt checked all the boxes. Their DSPP program offers a vast array of electives, making it possible to completely personalize one's experience. Their required courses are taught within the context of international or public policy, so students are immediately given the knowledge and tools for practical application. And the school's location, in my opinion, is in one of the best cities in the nation - Washington, DC. Whether you are interested in government, non-profit, international organizations, or the private sector, DC has ample opportunities available. This made McCourt a pretty easy decision for me.

What professional/ work experience did you have prior to coming to McCourt? My most recent professional experience prior to McCourt was serving as a Foreign Service Officer with the State Department through their fellowship program. I spent four years in China - two years in Guangzhou, and two in Shanghai - and had the opportunity to serve in many different capacities. I adjudicated visas for those traveling to the United States, visited US citizens in prisons and helped those in trouble, responded to Congressional inquiries, coordinated with other federal agencies to dismantle fraud rings, delivered presentations about American culture to the local public, and much more.

What has been the best part of your experience so far? The best part of my experience, or at least the part that has resonated with me the most, has been the top-notch quality of my professors, not just as instructors but also as humans. During my second semester I gave birth to my daughter, and caring for an infant while going to school full-time brought a host of challenges. However, every professor I've had has been incredibly understanding and supportive, and did everything within their power to ensure I could continue with school and complete my coursework. The instructors are amazing humans who genuinely care about the well-being of their students.

What internships have you had so far during your time at McCourt? I completed a 3-month summer internship at Procter & Gamble's headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio. As a Data Science intern, I worked with a team of data scientists to develop high-functioning tools for business analysts to leverage machine learning capabilities in a simple and easy-to-understand way.

Undergraduate University, degree, and major:  Claremont McKenna College, Bachelor of Arts in International Relations

Hobbies/ Interests: My interests include economic development with a focus on workforce development. I still have love for international politics, and in the future I hope to work toward poverty alleviation. My hobbies include exploring different types of cuisines and restaurants, vacations to the beach, learning different languages, and sports.

Reach out to me about: Life in the State Department, being a parent and student, moving overseas, traveling around the world, alleviating poverty through job creation