Pardee School Students Complete Prestigious Wilson Center Internships
Two students from Boston University’s Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies have returned from highly sought-after internships at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C. Matthew Hurley and Samantha Devin, both recipients of the Pardee Wilson Internship Fund Award for Summer 2024, gained valuable experience at one of the nation’s top think tanks.
The Wilson Center, known for its non-partisan research on global issues, offers a limited number of internships each year, making these opportunities highly competitive. Hurley and Devin’s selection and successful completion of their internships highlight the strong preparation provided by the Pardee School.
Matthew Hurley, an M.A. candidate in International Affairs and Security Studies, worked with the Indo-Pacific program. He described his time at the Wilson Center as a pivotal experience in his international affairs education. “I’ve become more confident in my research skills and realized that even when working on unfamiliar topics, I have meaningful contributions to make,” he shared.
During his internship, Hurley contributed to research on U.S. Navy agreements and workforce resiliency programs between the U.S., Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. He also explored NATO’s relationship with the Indo-Pacific Four (IP4).
Samantha Devin, pursuing a Master of Arts in International Relations and National Security Studies, interned in the Programs Office, where she took on a range of tasks, from redesigning informational documents to analyzing global elections. “This opportunity helped me sharpen my research abilities and gain a better understanding of how a think tank operates,” Devin reflected.
Both students noted the unique learning environment at the Wilson Center. They participated in various seminars, talks, and networking events alongside their hands-on projects.
“The leadership at the Wilson Center encourages open dialogue and bipartisan research, which directly influences policymakers,” Hurley remarked, emphasizing the center’s influence on policy discussions.
Hurley also offered advice for future applicants from the Pardee School: “Choose the program that excites you, but be adaptable. Get involved wherever you can and build from there.”
Hurley and Devin’s success at the Wilson Center reinforces the Pardee School’s commitment to preparing students for real-world challenges in international affairs. Their time there not only enhanced their academic foundation but also provided them with practical experience and connections that will be valuable in their careers.
“I’m deeply thankful for this internship and for the lasting relationships I built while there,” Devin said.
The Pardee Wilson Internship Fund Award continues to offer exceptional students the chance to gain firsthand experience at one of Washington, D.C.’s most respected think tanks. As Hurley and Devin return to Boston for their final year, they bring back knowledge and insights that will benefit the school’s academic community.