International Affairs/Public Policy, Military

International Affairs/Public Policy, Military

As a child, I loved maps. This interest developed into a curiosity about the differences and similarities in the way people in these different places on the map lived, ate, spoke and earned their livelihoods. This awareness of the world and its variety has increased with time and with the substantial travelling that I have done.   I have not, until recently, considered directing this passion into a formal course of study but now strongly wish to do so. My ultimate goal is to work for the foreign service of the government of Indonesia.

 I was born and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia and moved to the US at the age of 14. I attended a military academy in Virginia. Becoming accustomed to a new cultural environment is difficult enough, especially as I spoke very little English, but I was also faced with integrating myself into a military environment. However, when I graduated, I was battalion commander with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, the first female to reach this position. I believe that this achievement is strong confirmation of a determined and diligent personality possessing exceptional confidence and communication skills.

I have a profound passion for travel, which has allowed me to immerse myself in diverse cultures and environments across several countries, including Sweden, Greece, Spain, France, Ireland, England, and Costa Rica. Each destination has contributed uniquely to my understanding of the world. My journey began with a remarkable three-month stay in Sweden, where I not only explored the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities but also delved deeply into the local customs and traditions. This experience was invaluable, as it helped me appreciate the nuances of Swedish culture, from its rich history to its contemporary societal norms. Following my time in Sweden, I spent six transformative months in Spain, living with a welcoming family. This immersive experience was primarily aimed at enhancing my Spanish language skills, and it proved to be incredibly effective.

Living in a household where Spanish was the primary language allowed me to practice daily conversations and absorb the language in a natural context. I enjoyed participating in family activities, sharing meals, and learning about Spanish traditions, which significantly improved my fluency and comprehension. My travels also included visits to Ireland and England, made possible through my selection as a Student Ambassador. This role not only provided me with the opportunity to represent my institution but also allowed me to engage with local communities and gain insights into their educational systems and cultural practices. In both countries, I was struck by the warmth and hospitality of the people, which made my experiences even more enriching. In addition to my adventures in Europe, I am fluent in Indonesian and English, and I have been working diligently to improve my Spanish to an intermediate level. Language is a powerful tool, and I believe that speaking multiple languages opens doors to deeper connections with people from various backgrounds.

Traveling has imparted a crucial lesson: that anyone and everyone can serve as a valuable source of new or useful information about their country. For example, a seemingly casual remark from a taxi driver about the challenges faced by his brother’s trucking business can provide significant insight into the local economy. Such interactions often lead to deeper inquiries and discussions, unveiling layers of economic conditions and cultural contexts that are not readily apparent in textbooks or travel guides. My insatiable curiosity about the world drives me to continuously seek knowledge and understanding. I am committed to learning as much as I can about different cultures, economies, and social dynamics. To further this goal, I make it a point to study international news on a daily basis, staying updated on global events and trends that shape our interconnected world. Particularly, my research interests focus on the effects of the emerging global economy on Asia, with a keen emphasis on Indonesia. I am fascinated by how globalization impacts economic development, trade relations, and cultural exchanges in this rapidly changing region. By examining these dynamics, I aim to contribute to a greater understanding of Indonesia's role in the global landscape and its interactions with other nations. This pursuit not only fuels my passion for travel and exploration but also aligns with my aspiration to make a meaningful impact in the field of international relations.

Although the highly structured military and academic environment I enjoyed at school equipped me very well in many ways, it did not prepare me for the independence I found at college. I left XXXX University because of less than ‘stellar’ results in my second year. However I pulled myself together fully and I subsequently graduated ‘cum laude’ from XXU at the age of 23 with a degree in Business Management.

 I believe that my background provides proof of academic ability together with personal skills and characteristics that will enable me to excel in the program and in a future diplomatic career. I am an excellent and confident communicator, adaptable, diligent, intellectually curious, an experienced researcher and, most importantly, passionate about international relations.

 Thank you for considering my application.

International Affairs/Public Policy, Military