Global Security Institute, New York, NY
This summer, I worked as a remote intern for the Global Security Institute (GSI), a think-tank and lobbyist group in New York City. GSI looks to increase international cooperation in order to accomplish their goal of nuclear arms control and non-proliferation. They accomplish their main goals in a number of ways. For instance, not only do they educate different State Department officials, Senators, and U.S. Representatives, but they also convene diplomats and experts who have experience in international security issues. Furthermore, GSI organizes conversations by government officials between nuclear-weapons and non-nuclear countries. GSI works through the Nonpartisan Security Group, Middle Powers Initiative, and Parliamentarians for Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament as their three results-oriented programs. Finally, GSI is responsible for publishing research and analysis which is all related to global security issues.
As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was quite challenging to understand how GSI functions on a day-to-day basis. Because my internship was remote, I spent much of my time working independently. At the start of the summer, my supervisor Christian Ciobanu provided me, and four other interns, with a syllabus-like document which outlined key themes to familiarize ourselves with GSI. There was also a series of master classes taught by GSI President Jonathan Granoff that we attended. Next, we had required readings where we learned about multilateral treaties, international security and human security, principles and values, rule of law, leading arms control experts, and history makers.
Besides learning about key issues, I was responsible for tracking activities of the United Nations. I participated in different meetings and took notes on relevant information. I live-tweeted this information, allowing me to learn how to take notes effectively and efficiently. It was a very informative experience and I was thankful I could partake in these events. Each intern also had to research a topic of their choosing related to nuclear arms, which culminated in a final research paper. After receiving Mr. Ciobanu’s approval, I researched the sociological impact of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki Bombings on U.S. and Japan. As a history major, I was grateful for the chance to research a topic in such great detail, allowing me to improve upon my critical-thinking and analytical skills.
Thank you to the Class of 1974 and the ’68 Center for Career Exploration for allowing me to have this tremendous academic experience. I am grateful for your immense generosity.