Gator Career Chat: Foreign Relations, Diplomacy, and International NGOs (workshop recording & recap)

Last week’s Gator Career Chat: Foreign Relations, Diplomacy, and International NGOs featured panelists sharing their experiences and challenges working in this global field. Panelists Hali McLester, UF alum and Program Associate for the Latin American and Caribbean team, Global Energy Alliance for People and the Planet, and Van Ram, U.S. Foreign Service, Senior Foreign Service Officer (ret.), and Adjunct Faculty, Institute of World Politics emphasized the significance of being open to new possibilities and casting a wide net when seeking opportunities. They also discussed the challenges faced in international careers, such as living and working in developing countries, dealing with local culture, and balancing work and personal life across different locations.

Check out the recording and recap to learn more.

Foreign Relations Careers and Experiences

In the meeting, Van and Hali shared their experiences and motivations for pursuing careers in foreign relations. Van’s journey began when he was four years old, expressing a desire to be a diplomat. He served in the US Army as an officer, then joined the US Foreign Service, serving in Jordan and Russia. He highlighted the responsibility and unique opportunities he experienced, such as setting up a press filing center for a presidential visit in the middle of the desert. Hali shared her current role in designing a project in Brazil to support the government’s energy transition goals, emphasizing the connection between her work and broader issues like education, health, and water. Both expressed appreciation for the challenges and opportunities their careers have provided.

Language Learning and Career Flexibility

Hali and Van discussed the importance of language learning and flexibility in career paths, particularly in international relations and NGOs. Hali emphasized that one’s major does not significantly impact their career prospects and encouraged students to explore various subjects and internships. She also highlighted the significance of speaking another language, especially in regions outside of Europe. Van agreed, adding that writing skills are also crucial in the foreign service. Both Hali and Van recommended finding conversation partners and utilizing online resources for language learning. They also suggested that taking a formal language class can be beneficial, but immersion in the language is key.

Challenges in International Careers

Hali and Van discussed the challenges they faced in their international careers. Van highlighted the challenges of living and working in a developing country, dealing with local culture, and internal dynamics within the workplace. He also noted that the challenges might be more significant for women, depending on the local culture. Hali added that safety concerns and the difficulty of balancing work and personal life across different locations were significant challenges. She also mentioned the challenges of working for NGOs, such as competing priorities and fundraising. Both agreed that flexibility and adaptability were essential in overcoming these challenges.

Exploring International Internship and Job Opportunities

Van and Hali discussed international opportunities for internships and jobs. Van and Hali both recommended exploring various sectors, including the US government and NGOs, and applying early for competitive positions. Hali shared her experience with the State Department’s virtual student foreign service program, which she found beneficial for gaining experience without leaving the country. Both Van and Hali emphasized the importance of being open to new possibilities and casting a wide net when seeking opportunities.

Thumbnail photo by Kyle Glenn on Unsplash

By David Adams
David Adams Senior Assistant Director for Career Pathways – Business, Public Service, and Tourism