certifiedassociate!of!project!management · austin’j’wilkes!! ! ! !...
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Austin J Wilkes 912B Keith Lane, Austin Texas, USA 78705
(601) 988 8033 ·∙ [email protected] Education University of Alabama, Bachelor of Business Administration Major: Management; Specialization: Entrepreneurship – GPA: 3.2/4.0
Tuscaloosa, USA 08/06 – 08/10
Beijing Language and Culture University Intensive Mandarin Language Program
Beijing, China 02/11 – 07/11
Project Management Institute Certified Associate of Project Management
International 08/10 – 12/10
Profile & Skill Summary Recent graduate with experience managing a successful small business. Significant experience in functional areas of business development, project management, client account management, and market/business analysis. Technical Skills: • Advanced competency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint • Proficiency in Visio, Access, Project, and SPSS • Basic experience with HTML/CSS, Python, SQL, Javascript, Adobe
CS5 Suite, Acrobat Pro X, Salesforce, and open source CMSs
Other Skills/Strengths: • Document development – business plans, proposals,
presentations, contracts, etc. • Integrative reasoning – making connections between
and effectively presenting data/information
Work Experience Forward Focus Media Birmingham, AL, USA
Digital operations & strategy consulting firm; Firm focused on serving political and non-‐profit organizations
Co-‐ founder 01/2008 – 11/2010
Overview of Responsibilities: • Responsible for managing company’s product offering in areas of CRM deployment, digital analytics, and website development • Designed survey methodology, in conjunction with specialist firms including Gallup, for multiple statewide political campaigns • Managed multiple client email databases of over 100k subscribers and client voter datasets of over 3 million observations • Responsible for strategy, copy, and design of all company proposals and presentations • Worked with clients, including a Governor, Senator and Congressman, to establish needs, gather requirements and translate
such project needs and requirements into an actionable framework from which specialized staff can efficiently operate • Developed client use case documentation detailing optimal utilization of and interaction between company developed solutions
of CRM, website CMS, and external facing marketing platforms (mobile, email, etc.) Select Accomplishments: • Optimized media purchase efficiency using quantitative analysis, saving 2010 clients in excess of $100k USD • Developed proprietary formula to measure online advertising effectiveness in relation to fundraising which provided clients
with future ROI estimates that were 80 – 90% accurate
Internship Experience Medicaid Planning Specialists – Jackson, MS, USA
Small business that managed Medicaid reimbursement process for long term care facilities
Summer Associate 2005 & 2006
• Conducted ongoing research regarding Medicaid reimbursement processes • Analyzed process changes and communicated business consequences to sales staff • Designed & implemented digital data entry system that cut sales representative paper usage by >80%
Volunteer/Other Activities • Alabama Entrepreneurial Research Network -‐ 2009 Research Assistant specializing in developing county profiles of
demographics and industry for small business owners in low income rural counties • Ron Paul for President -‐ 2007-‐2008 Assistant State Coordinator -‐ Co-‐organized 7 district coordinators representing over 4,000
volunteers; Awarded recognition (1 of 10 nationally) for outstanding volunteer achievement • Sino-‐Foreign Organizing Committee -‐ 2011 Organized a cultural exchange event between Beijing expats and local community
which attracted over 200 attendees and praise by district government • US Commission on Civil Rights, State Advisory Committee -‐ 2008-‐2009 Project Assistant for Alabama SAC focusing on research
related to eminent domain abuse against minority communities; research culminated in statewide public hearing
Austin J Wilkes 912B Keith Lane, Austin Texas, USA 78705
(601) 988 8033 ·∙ [email protected] I am writing to express my interest in an internship with Stratfor for spring 2012. I am a recent graduate with several years of experience managing a small business in the non-‐profit digital communities industry. In addition, I have recently finished a half a year study abroad program in Beijing, China. In 2007, I began volunteering for a second-‐tier presidential campaign in the state of Alabama where I was completing my undergraduate education. I quickly rose to become the Assistant State Coordinator, where I helped manage over 4,000 volunteers. While the campaign was ultimately not electorally successful, I gained a significant number of connections in the Alabama political system, which I used as a foundation for Forward Focus Media. I co-‐founded the firm Forward Focus Media, alongside two political consultants, to capitalize on the nascent market for digital campaign strategies in the state of Alabama. Under my leadership our firm developed into the industry leader of a niche market (internet operations consulting within the Alabama political sphere). During my time at Forward Focus Media I gained valuable experience and countless insights but upon the conclusion of the 2010 election cycle I decided against continued political involvement. I realized my desire to be involved in politics was an outgrowth of my interest in policy, rather than an inherent desire to climb the political ladder. Upon the conclusion of the 2010 election cycle, I decided to follow my interest in global affairs and gain experience outside of the United States. When I landed in Beijing during the winter of 2011, I could speak almost no Chinese, had no local friends or any safety net to assist me in relocating. The basics of life, from leasing an apartment to daily transportation, became what in retrospect amounted to survival immersion. My mornings in China were typically spent practicing Mandarin and my afternoons and evenings were spent attending local intercultural events. I wanted to use my time in China to gauge whether my interest in China was a passing interest or something that I could realistically use as a basis for a long-‐term career specialization. While I concluded the latter, I realized the necessity of refining my focus to develop a particular niche of specialization as opposed to Asian affairs in a broad context. Upon returning to the United States after half a year living in Beijing, I decided to apply to graduate policy school in order to further develop and refine my skills towards my specific interests. I prepared for and scored a 1350/1600 on the GRE, which will position me well for almost every public policy program in the country. In addition to focusing graduate specialization on Sino-‐US economic and trade related issues, I also intend to further develop my Mandarin skills. Upon arriving in Austin I learned about Stratfor from a friend who subscribes to the intelligence reports. I realized an internship with Stratfor would be a perfect complement to my upcoming graduate policy studies. I believe my knowledge of business and economic affairs, experience abroad, and passion for achievement makes me a very suitable candidate for a spring internship with Stratfor. My strengths include digital research, document development, and integrative reasoning. If given the opportunity I will be able start anytime and devout at least 24 hours per week with a high degree of flexibility in shift timing.
Donnie DickeyAustin, TX 78731
512-971-6699 • [email protected]
EDUCATION
St. Edward’s University Expected Graduation: Global Affairs Major Summer 2013
Austin Community College Graduated:General Studies Associate of Arts Degree Summer 2011
SKILLS, TALENTS, & ACHIEVEMENTS
Research Skills• Assisted in a published project and obtained a copyright from the Library of
Congress• Identified needs in a small business to expand services by developing a proposed
plan to offer goods to local organizations• Efficient in both Mac and Windows; highly adaptable in the operations of various
computer programs Professional Achievements
• Valuable experience in networking and public outreach for a small business Talents
• Passionate for creativity; can play multiple instruments and operate technical audio recording equipment
• Rewarded for originality in multiple artistic projects within drama, music, and art
WORK EXPERIENCE
Daily Juice Cafe Austin, TX Kitchen Prep & Server 25hrs/weekOctober 2010 - May 2011 • Maintained high standard work ethic and promoted healthy lifestyle• Prepared refreshments and often received compliments and requests • Courteously communicated with customers
Tropical Smoothie Cafe Cedar Park, TX Team Leader & Marketer 30hrs/weekSeptember 2009 - October 2010 September 2006 - May 2007
• Increased company sales by continuous marketing • Earned several hundred dollars in catering and delivery orders within the summer
months• Networked in public and represented the company by meeting business
professionals of over 30 hotels, 20 car dealerships, and other local places such as banks, schools, and churches
• Collaborated weekly in team leadership conferences and created successful business strategies
• Trained new employees regarding the operations of the store• Handled money through bank deposits, delivery orders, and grocery shopping • Effectively opened and closed the store
Goodwill Cedar Park, TXRetail & Dock Worker – Cashier & Donation Door 25hrs/weekFebruary 2006 - August 2006
• Promoted by increasing the store’s rate of production• Gained supervisory experience by overseeing the works of others• Trained coworkers regarding procedures and responsibilities in community service
environment• Literally helped in building the store
Availability
Managing College and STRATFOR Internship I believe it is easily possible to arrange my spring schedule to accommodate this internship. This will be an especially useful experience and will be looked upon favorably by St. Edward’s University because this internship pertains to my Global Affairs major.
!! STRATFOR would be an ideal complement to my interests in global affairs and international relations studies. I believe this internship offers an opportunity to work with people who have the same desires, goals, and interests that I have. As an undergraduate at St. Edward’s University, I found STRATFOR’s offer of the research internship program to be an exciting way to harness my research and analytical skills. I have confidence in my abilities and I strive for an experience such as this to develop professionally.! Learning and gathering information has always been fascinating and easy for me to the point I always seem to be doing it. I have always been enthusiastic and an inquisitive type of learner. To satisfy my continuos effort and zeal to expand my knowledge, I spend a lot of time in the library and on my computer. I am particularly fond of viewing university lectures online or on my iPhone; when I read or watch these lectures, I develop notes for further reference. I keep the notes so that I can later synthesize and evaluate what I have heard; I do this all for my own leisure. I can explore a variety of subjects in great depth even if it takes over a span of weeks to complete a full course. I am not only an avid learner but I am a person of patience and persistence. I believe this combination of qualities is useful for any researcher or analyst in global affairs. The strong energy I possess, that drives me to learning, roots in my self-motivation. Also, I am always yearning to find a useful purpose for others in anyway that I can. STRATFOR can further coordinate my abilities into a constructive use that will mutually benefit our goals.! Since I have multiple interests, my background has produced a variety of accomplishments. I have a strong drive for even greater success. My inquisitiveness apparently began at a young age. I asked my family what did they do to make learning so easy for me. Over the years, the question of learning culminated into a parenting project. I assisted my grandmother, a retired educator, in researching what scientist and educators had found that contributed to life long learners. This experience led to the development of material for several published booklets with plans for a future business. I am interested in finding ways to help developing nations to stimulate their children’s minds to be scientists, inventors, and strong, free international participants. Another personal achievement in my background was the experience of turning a small business around. I identified and acted upon the need for better marketing strategies and also created a functional delivery service from scratch. I researched other franchises as well as certain laws so that I could pursue the task effectively. I networked with several community organizations and even set up the opportunity to deliver food to the office of the Railroad Commission of Texas.! I hope these experiences show that I am resourceful as well as creative and a determined individual. In retrospect, I have learned how to self-manage extremely well. I took most of these responsibilities and tasks all at once and even amid my college studies. I also hope that by describing my experiences, I have proven my ability and demonstrated with my successes that I am suitable for this opportunity. STRATFOR’s research internship is ultimately compatible with my passion for global and national affairs. My availability for the spring of 2012 is significantly open; I still would like to balance my time taking undergraduate college courses while adequately meeting the hours required for this internship.
Donnie Dickey ! Statement of Purpose
STRATFOR Purpose I desire to work for STRATFOR because of the quality of the investigation and the writing exemplified in your publications. I greatly admire your organization. I would be a good match for your internship because I have a curious nature and I write well. I enjoy the investigative aspect of the work and the synthesis of information that the job requires. I am accustomed to working long hours when I am working at a task I enjoy. I would like to add recent training to my resume, and the international scope of your publication appeals to me. I am most interested in Mexico, but I have also experienced travel in Central America and Europe and have worked with students from all over the world. I also bring the experience of having led groups of students in home stays in both Mexico and Spain through the auspices of the Experiment in International Living. I am proficient in Microsoft WORD, EXCEL, and PowerPoint, and I am capable of quick mastery of any other program that is necessary. The experience I can offer to STRATFOR is diverse. I lived and worked in Mexico as an English as a Second Language teacher at the John F. Kennedy American School in Queretaro many years ago. I had lived on the border in El Paso as a child. I was always quite curious about the lives of the people who lived beyond the mountains of the state of Chihuahua. As an adult, I made efforts to achieve fluency in Spanish and to gain cross-cultural understanding with our neighbors to the south. Returning to Texas, I earned a Masters of Education in Education with concentration in bilingual education/ESL. I worked as a teacher for seventeen years. My most recent work experience was as the Coordinator of the Texas-Spain Initiatives for the Texas Education Agency. At the time, the TEA had a Memorandum of Understanding with Spain. We worked with districts here in Texas to assist them in the recruitment of teachers from Spain who would principally staff their bilingual education programs. Locally, Austin, Round Rock, and Pflugerville participated. The largest district that employed our teachers was Dallas ISD. I am available as of January 1, 2012. I would be able to work 40 plus hours a week in order to acquire as much knowledge and skills as possible. I hope you will select me to continue in the process. Thank you.
JAN E. JOHNSON 12911 Humphrey Drive Austin, Texas 78729 (512) 231-0620
E-mail: [email protected]
Administrative Operations Focus of Interest: Bilingual Administrative Services (Austin, Texas)
QUALIFICATIONS PROFILE
Energetic, motivated, and creative bilingual Program Coordinator with qualified experience in customer service, program management, and administrative operations; complemented with a distinguished record of accomplishment in problem resolution by identifying, analyzing, developing and implementing the solution.
STRENGTHS Program Coordinator
Administrative Operations
Bilingual
Oral and Written Communication
Training & Development
Detail Oriented
Customer Service
Problem Resolution
Talented program coordinator, trainer and administrative assistant; having performed these functions for a variety of government, education, and research organizations.
Highly focused with the ability to consistently administer a quality program.
Detail oriented; extremely organized; proficient in MS Office products – Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and database applications.
Valued by employers for dependability, excellent writing/editing skills, professionalism, and adaptability.
Proven success in leading, developing and implementing training efforts, expanding employee knowledge through the delivery of first-rate courses.
PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND Program Coordinator
Program Coordinator for state agency enabling school districts to recruit highly qualified teachers from Spain. Developed Bilingual Recruiting Program providing talent acquisition for numerous organizations; always delivering
top candidates to management for their consideration. Personal Attributes
Highly organized and dedicated individual with strong work ethic and excellent communication skills; able to build positive interpersonal relationships based on trust and professionalism.
CAREE R PA TH
TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY—AUSTIN, TX PROGRAM COORDINATOR – TEXAS-SPAIN INITIATIVES
1997 - 2011
▪ Administered Texas-Spain Initiatives Visiting Teacher Program. ▪ Developed manual for program administration. ▪ Planned and oversaw annual summer orientation program for 50 plus teachers per session. ▪ Assisted districts with teacher adaptation issues.
ASSESSMENT SPECIALIST - ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE ▪ Developed guidelines for Reading Proficiency Tests in English (RPTE). ▪ Produced RPTE Information Guide. ▪ Conducted meetings with teacher committees to review field test items and data collected.
ACCOUNTABILITY AND SCHOOL ACCREDITATION PLANNER ▪ Reviewed applications for exceptions/waivers to bilingual education/English as a Second Language.
EDUCAT I ON / CE RTIFIC A TIONS TE X A S TE CH UN I V E R S I T Y – MA S T E R S ED U CA T I O N UN I V E R S I T Y O F TE X A S – B A EN G L I S H , MI N O R S O CI O L O G Y CE R T I F I E D I N SP A N I S H A N D EN G L I S H A S A SE CO N D LA N G U A G E (ESL)
Mark Jbeily E: [email protected] T: (512) 517-‐‑2002
Education The University of Texas at Austin 2011-‐‑2015
Plan II Honors, Government, Arabic
Westwood High School 2007-‐‑2011
International Baccalaureate Diploma Extended Essay: Hope or Fear: An Assessment of Chinese Economic and Political Resurgence in Africa
Experience Midshipman 4th Class, Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps 2011-‐‑Present
Specialized leadership training in officer ascension program to commission as an Ensign in the US Navy upon graduation. Received Midshipman Achievement Award for outstanding leadership in Battalion current events briefings. Language Skills, Regional Expertise and Cultural Awareness (LREC) Program candidate.
Longhorn Legislative Aid, Student Government 2011-‐‑Present
Staffing for Student Body President: planned and executed events concerning university budget, student engagement, and tuition increases. Sit on Financial Affairs committee managing internal and external budget appropriations.
Community Organizer, Texas Campaign for the Environment Summer 2011
Organized, mobilized, lobbied, and fundraised on environmental issues including air quality, electronic waste recycling, and landfill containment.
Senior Class President, Student Council 2007-‐‑2011
Worked with students, administrators, and community leaders to initiate public service projects both on and off campus as well as represent the needs of the Senior Class on the Student Council.
Entrepreneurship Promotion Project, DECA Business Association 2009-‐‑2011
Project Manager of a district wide Entrepreneurship Promotion Project designed to educated elementary school students about entrepreneurship through a district-‐‑wide Entrepreneurship Awareness Week. International Finalist in competition.
Page, US House of Representatives; Honorable Michael McCaul Summer 2010
Worked as a Page for Representative Michael McCaul, giving me first hand experience with legislative staffing, bill passage, and lobbying. Undertook research on the role of special interests in modern governance.
Alumni, Campaign Academy; Honorable Mark Strama Summer 2006 & 2008
Gained first hand experience in grassroots campaigning and governing in the Texas Legislature. Participated in community organizing, voting demographics analysis, opposition research, and campaign event planning.
References Captain Daniel Dixon, Commanding Officer UT NROTC, US Navy E: [email protected] P: (512) 471-‐‑7653
Natalie Butler, Student Body President, UT Student Government E: [email protected] P: (512) 471-‐‑3166
Honorable Mark Strama; District 50, Texas State House of Representatives E: [email protected] P: (512) 463-‐‑0821
Mark Jbeily Research Internship Program STRATFOR Statement of Purpose
Since an early age, I have been interested in global affairs. At a young age such an interest can be difficult to satisfy in avenues besides movies or books, but now I am seeking opportunities to expand my understanding of global affairs and contribute my analytical skills in context of geopolitics. I am a well-suited candidate for STRATFOR’s Research Internship Program because I have combined my interests in international affairs with academic achievement, relevant experience, and a personal understanding of the nexus between other cultures and American culture. I was raised to understand and appreciate the value of a strong education. I am currently a student in the Plan II honors program at The University of Texas at Austin. Plan II is one of the nations oldest and most prestigious honors programs. It is highly regarded for its renaissance approach to undergraduate liberal arts education. Students take rigorous courses in a variety of disciplines ranging from literature to the natural sciences. The program has prepared me for the Research Internship Program by transcending traditional test taking and focusing heavily on discussion and research-based learning. There is also an emphasis on seminar courses with top university faculty such as Perspectives on US Foreign Policy with Admiral Bobby Inman, or American Technology and Victory in the Cold War with former Secretary of the Air Force Hans Mark. Such courses afford students the opportunity to apply their skills to real world issues and hones professional writing in connecting a disparate range of topics around a central thesis. By bridging disciplines, I can better understand the subtleties and complexities of global situations in the Research Internship Program. I am also studying Government and Arabic. My parents taught me spoken Arabic at home, and I am studying the language to bring it to an academic proficiency. My high school education was also broad based and rigorous in its curriculum. I graduated with an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. The IB program makes students competent in both the humanities and natural sciences. Furthermore the program contextualizes the curriculum in a global way, so students better understand the implications of their education. Through the Extended Essay and Internal Assessments requirements, students complete a large writing component. The Extended Essay is intended to be the capstone for the diploma, similar to a Masters thesis or Doctoral dissertation. The topic and research is student directed, and students are encouraged to pursue topics of personal interest. My Extended Essay topic was Hope or Fear: An Assessment of Chinese Economic and Political Resurgence in Africa. Thanks to both my high school and university education, I have honed and developed the research and writing skills necessary to be successful in the Research Internship Program. In addition to academics, I have been involved in a variety of organizations that provide me with valuable experience for the Research Internship Program. I am currently a Midshipman in UT’s Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps. Upon graduation, I will commission as an Ensign in the United States Navy. I was recently awarded the Midshipman Achievement Award by the Battalion Commanding Officer for my outstanding leadership in current events briefing. I was tasked with keeping the Battalion informed on global affairs and developing situations such as NATO action in
Mark Jbeily Research Internship Program STRATFOR Statement of Purpose
Libya and potential effects of budget cuts on the Department of Defense. Beyond just experience in gathering and synthesizing sensitive information, NROTC cultivates the leadership, integrity, and teamwork traits essential for any successful workplace. While NROTC provides me with a military perspective for the Research Internship Program, I also have strong understanding of domestic governance and affairs. My involvement as Longhorn Legislative Aide has given me a deeper understanding of the University especially where issues of budget, tuition, and Texas State Government relation are concerned. I also sit on the Financial Affairs committee that manages appropriates funds to hundreds of student organization at the University. Furthermore, I served as a Page in the United States House of Representatives for the Honorable Michael McCaul. The Page Program gave me a unique inside perspective on how special interests influence government functions, and especially the labyrinth of votes and committees legislation must navigate to become law. These experiences and unique domestic perspectives will be highly valuable for the Research Internship Program. Finally, I have developed a valuable cultural sensitivity thanks to my personal background. My parents were both immigrants to the United States from Lebanon. I grew up bridging both American and Lebanese cultures. By necessity, I quickly learned how and why certain American values conflicted with Lebanese values. Though we have improved, American foreign policy still tends to be heavy handed where other cultures are concerned. The longstanding societal and historical contributions are not always acknowledged. This puts us at a dramatic disadvantage in situations when such an understanding is vital to success. For example after the invasion of Iraq in 2003, had American policymakers better understood the longstanding social grievances of Iraq’s major demographic groups, the sectarian violence that destabilized the country could have been mitigated or even avoided. By being raised in the culture, learning the language, and frequently visiting Lebanon, I have developed a cultural sensitivity essential for the Research Internship Program. Thanks to my record of academic achievement, relevant experiences, and cultural sensitivity I feel that I am a well-suited candidate for STRATFOR’s Research Internship Program. I am available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday after one and Tuesday, Thursday after 6. I am also available on Saturdays.
University Address: JORDAN P. SMITH Permanent Address:
305 Thurston Ave. 217.621.8760 2067 Coyote Run Rd. Ithaca, NY 14850 [email protected] Monticello, IL 61856 ACADEMICS
Cornell University—Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management Ithaca, New York Bachelor of Science, Magna Cum Laude, Finance & Strategy Concentrations, Cumulative GPA: 3.83 May 2011 Honors Research Thesis—Corporate Strategy: Managerial Decision Analysis Model
University of Cambridge United Kingdom Study Abroad Summer 2007 EXPERIENCE
Northwestern Mutual Champaign, Illinois Intern, Investment Services December 2007 to September 2011
-Direct client contact, preparing sell side presentations, and contributing to relationship management in private accounts. -Advisory and brokerage of funds, hedging instruments, and structured products in over 30 transactions. -Utilize annual reports and market research to assess company profiles and construct comprehensive valuation models. -Research and analysis of portfolios containing mutual funds, asset backed securities, equity, derivatives and real assets. -Analysis of emerging markets funds focusing on aggressive growth, specifically in BRIC and N11 economies. -Average 80 hours per week during summers, 15-20 hours during the academic year. -No. 1 Northwestern Mutual College Group for revenue and client volume 2008. Top 2% of individuals in 2009 and 2010.
Alegro Capital London, United Kingdom Analyst Intern, Corporate Finance Advisory January 2011
-Due diligence, company profiles, internal reports, valuation, and analysis of corporate finance transactions. -Assisted in advisory of private placement for 10% equity in a publicly traded company.
Cornell University Ithaca, New York Research Assistant, Dr. M. Gomez, Department of Applied Economics and Management August 2009 to December 2010
-Qualitative and statistical analysis of firm data in order to isolate variable corollaries for eight regional businesses. -Analysis of large data sets, prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for affiliates of Cornell University.
Barclays Capital New York, New York Wall Street Scholar, Investment Banking and Global Markets January 2010
-Selected for a series of workshops covering all franchise divisions. -Team based trading simulations and financial valuation training. Placed first in trading simulations.
CAREER RELATED COURSEWORK
Microeconomics I & II Global Economics Management Strategy Risk Simulation & Optimization Valuation of Capital Investment Behavioral Economics Commercial Banking Military Strategy Applied Finance Emerging Market Growth Energy Economics Security Analysis UNDERGRADUATE AFFILIATIONS
Financial Management Group of Cornell Senior Analyst, Financial Institutions Group September 2010-May 2011 Analyst, Healthcare Group August 2009-May 2010
-Team of approximately 15 investors managing a student owned, low-beta equities portfolio. Weekly recommendations.
Seal and Serpent Society President December 2009-December 2010
-Represent the Society to faculty and student government, recruit students from every undergraduate discipline. -Lead officer in managing real estate with 22 tenants generating approximately $150k in annual revenue.
Office of United States Congressman Mark Kirk-10th Congressional District of Illinois Senate Campaign May 2010-November 2010
-Research demographics and call hundreds of voters as a volunteer in the campaign for President Obama’s Senate seat. HONORS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Der Hexenkreis Mortar Board Senior Honors Society John M. Templeton Fellowship-John Templeton Foundation/The Independent Institute 2009 Loomis Scholarship in Applied Economics and Management-Cornell University 2009, 2010 Undergraduate Grant-Cornell University 2009, 2010 Seal and Serpent Society Scholarship 2010 OTHER
Olympic Torch Relay Runner, Cornell Wrestling Club, Golf (+15h), Physician’s Assistant in Medical Delegation to El Salvador Bloomberg, Microsoft Office, Stata, Palisade Risk, Intex, LoanPerformance, CoreLogic, Argus FINRA Series 7 & 63, CFA Level I Candidate (June 2011)
Jordan Smith
305 Thurston Ave.
Ithaca, NY 14850
STRATFOR Global Intelligence
Recruiting Manager
221 W. 6th
Street, Suite 400
Austin, TX 78701
December 4, 2011
Dear Recruiting Committee,
My name is Jordan Smith and I am a recent graduate of the Applied Economics and Management
program at Cornell University. I am writing in regards to the Research Intern position with
STRATFOR Global Intelligence. I am applying for a position in geopolitical analysis because of
my interest in producing original macroeconomic research and conducting policy analysis
pertaining to multiple facets of a particular region. STRATFOR offers interns the opportunity to
assume an active role in producing original research reports and conducting analysis of
contemporary issues in the global environment.
As a student specializing in finance and strategy, I have had extensive exposure to quantitative
analysis, risk simulation modeling, competitive strategy, game theory, economic and policy
analysis. I served as an analyst for one of the undergraduate student investment groups, where I
was responsible for evaluating systemic, industry, and firm-specific conditions as they relate to
firm strategy. In addition to my coursework, I have had over three years of intern experience in
research, advisory, and market analysis with Northwestern Mutual. As part of a team of
investment professionals, my primary duties were fund due diligence, analysis, and
recommendations regarding client suitability based on risk tolerance and growth objectives. This
year, I spent my winter holiday in London working for Alegro Capital in corporate advisory,
where I had the opportunity to conduct a number of valuation analyses and further my
experience in corporate finance.
At Cornell, I was a part of the Honors in Undergraduate Research program, where I studied
under Dr. Garrick Blalock. My senior thesis proposed a proprietary model for incorporating
quantitative and qualitative information in order to properly evaluate decision making in a
variety of different economic scenarios. The final product of my research demonstrated through a
three-part inter-industry case study.
I was also fortunate enough to obtain a position as a Research Assistant undertaking primary
research to analyze systemic and firm specific data. I primarily used Excel and Stata for
statistical analysis of data sets consisting of thousands of variables. Following data mining,
construction of relevant models, and thorough statistical analysis, I was responsible for
quantifying and presenting my findings.
I have had the opportunity to research economic and political policy in emerging markets both
through my coursework as well as through research in asset management. My primary focus has
been forward looking projections regarding BRIC and N11 economies. These hyper growth
regions are unique due to the difficulty of maintaining the fragile equilibrium which is
jeopardized in rapidly changing nations with political instability. My analyses typically related to
examining demographic projections, energy supply lines, and natural resource scarcity. One
research piece explored the relationship between the rate of adoption of social networking and
the price of oil leading up to and during the Arab Spring movement. Another paper related to
how the need for states to import water has and will affect our foreign policy at a federal level.
During my last semester at Cornell, I had completed all required courses and was allowed to take
several graduate courses. One of these was a course on energy economics taught by Benjamin
Ho, the Lead Economist for Energy at the White House Council of Economic Advisors during
2006-07. I am hoping to further develop my understanding of how energy economics affect
political policy and national security strategy.
Though I have a comprehensive understanding of financial markets, valuation, and economics, I
am hoping to broaden my exposure as I launch my career. I am hoping to leverage that
experience and learn more about other systems as well. My experience and skills in market
analysis and management strategy are easily translatable to gathering data, assessment of
political situations, risk analysis, and utilizing situational analyses to provide invaluable
information regarding outcome probability.
STRATFOR offers interns the unique opportunity to contribute to their areas of expertise, but
also to incorporate aspects of other geopolitical dimensions in order to gain a better
understanding of a scenario. I am hoping extend my research skills to topics relating to national
security, military forces, and politics in particular.
After junior year of my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to develop this aspiration to
some degree when I volunteered for U.S. Congressman Mark Kirk in his campaign to fill
President Obama’s vacant seat in the U.S. Senate. Though my primary responsibilities were just
calling and speaking with constituents, the experience provided me with a catalyst by which to
further explore my interest in the political sphere.
I have extensive experience gathering, interpreting, and updating data and models on a daily
basis. Following analysis, I have experience presenting empirical explanations for my
recommendations and discussing alternatives extensively with both my colleagues and outside
research affiliates. I am seeking an opportunity to combine these skills and apply primary data to
conducting strategic and tactical analysis at STRATFOR as I prepare for graduate studies.
I am able to work independently and with little supervision. My past experience in research
enables me to add value to any project and allow senior group members to focus on the more
complex aspects of a project. I have a strong desire to work for one of the world’s most highly
regarded intelligence operations and contribute to the caliber of security analysts that
STRATFOR attracts.
I am available to start immediately, and I look forward to discussing the Research Internship in
greater detail at your convenience.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jordan Smith
Leilani Kelley [email protected] (281)414-2096
Personal Statement Originally, I came to the University of Texas with dreams of becoming an international correspondent for a journalistic publication. I’ve since abandoned that dream in favor of a new one, a life working in intelligence. Instead of focusing on what is happening now and moving on, I want to focus on the specifics of how it happened, why it happened and what will happen next. I’ve always had a passion for research and I want to turn this passion into a potential career. STRATFOR is a leading global intelligence agency and it is the perfect place for me to develop the research skills I’ve built over the past four years at the university into something even better. I’m well versed in quantitative and qualitative research methods and the papers I have submitted for my international security, political communications and research methods have always earned top marks and some have even garnered recommendations for collegiate awards. I want to take these skills and apply them in a real world setting for the benefit of STRATFOR, and I implore you to allow me to do so. I have not held any positions with an emphasis on international affairs to date, but my other internship experience demonstrates my hard work and ability to learn quickly. Last summer I served as a fellow on the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities. My job there was to research successful campaigns for Disability History Month across the United States and create a workbook that gives interest groups detailed instructions on how to pursue this legislation in their own states. The workbook has been widely published and was used in Texas to get Disability History Month through the legislature and on its way to ratification. I also served as a research assistant for the College of Communications. I collected data on people’s news habits for a study conducted on behalf of the Federal Communications Commission. I understand that my background may not be typical for this position, but please do not let that keep you from considering me. I’m in love with international affairs, particularly international security and applications of game theory. I spend quite a few afternoons reading Foreign Policy and The Economist, hungrily looking for articles pertaining to my foreign affairs interests. I would give anything to work in this industry, but opportunities are few and far between in Austin. Working for STRATFOR would be an amazing and interesting experience that would help me develop my skills and grow as a person all while contributing to a company that is doing something incredibly important for its clients. I humbly ask you to consider me. If chosen, I am available January 1st and can work any hours until school starts on January 17th. Then I will be able to work any hours on Monday and Friday, before noon or after one on Wednesday and any hours before 2pm on Tuesday and Thursday. My schedule is incredibly flexible and I will be able to make anything work within these bounds.
Leilani Kelley 210 E. 32nd St., Apt. D Austin, Texas, 78705
(281)414-2096 [email protected]
Academic Honors Dean’s List 2007-2011 Senior Fellow in Communications Distinguished College Scholar 3.90 GPA Work Experience Fellow/Intern Office of the Governor June 2010-Aug. 2010 Austin, TX • Created an instruction manual for students interested in getting Disability History Month
legislation passed in their state that has been widely distributed by the National Association of Governor’s Committees on People with Disabilities
• Recruited members of the Youth Leadership Forum and other disability advocacy groups to create a coalition in favor of establishing Disability History Month in Texas
• Created and maintained a database of disability coordinators from all state agencies • Performed data entry, research and website maintenance for the Governor’s Committee on
People with Disabilities Student Government Students with Disabilities Agency Director
University of Texas Sept. 2009-May 2011 Austin, TX • Chaired the Lee Bagan Endowment, a $25,000 dollar fund that offers financial aid to students
with learning disabilities • Served on the planning committee of the Barbara Jordan Media Awards, an event celebrating
excellence in media depictions of disability. All profits benefitted the Lee Bagan Endowment • Expanded the agency’s outreach ability by hosting forums and using student input to help create
a Blackboard discussion board to allow students to seek support anonymously Research Assistant College of Communications June 2011-August 2011 Austin, TX • Set up equipment and recruited participants for a study regarding radio consumers’ news habits Awards/Service Governor’s Fellowship Program Scholarship Recipient (Only Two Awarded) Fred E. and Nora V. Haas Presidential Scholarship Recipient Carole Patterson Endowed Scholarship Recipient Intellectual Entrepreneurship Pre-Graduate Intern Counseling and Mental Health Center (CMHC) Student Advisory Committee
At-Large Member February 2010-2011 University of Texas Liberal Arts Council Most Valuable Member 2009
Nicholas Corcoran 8824 Pocono Dr.� Plano, TX 75025
Phone: 972.900.9009 � E-Mail: [email protected]
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Summary Accomplished, experienced graduate seeking research internship program position with Stratfor Global Intelligence. Has significant international experience and is skilled in cross-cultural leadership. Seeking internship experience to gain tangible skills in open source intelligence industry.
Education • Franklin College-Switzerland May 2011
Lugano, Switzerland B.A. International Relations, French minor
Course Work: International Economics, Energy Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Politics of the Middle East, Selected Topics in African Developmental Studies, Environmental Politics, French, Italian
• Arabic Language Institute, The American University in Cairo Jan-May 2011 Cairo, Egypt
Course Work: Intensive language semester in Modern Standard Arabic and Egyptian Colloquial Arabic. Participated in multiple pro-democracy protests and assisted with the subsequent reconstruction during the fall of the Mubarak regime in the Egyptian Revolution. Attended Doha Debates focused on constitutional reform.
• International Student Program, The American University in Cairo Jan-May 2010 Cairo, Egypt
Course Work: Petroleum Geology, Middle Eastern Politics, U.S Foreign Policy, Arabic
• SIT Mali: Public Health, Gender, and Sustainable Development Aug-Dec 2009 Mali
Course Work: Sustainable Development Studies on Food Security and Economic Development, West African Politics, Environmental Issues in Mali
Research Experience Independent Study Project- conducted a month long field-based research project in Mali to determine current food security situation and the effect of global recession on neighborhood market food prices. Conducted research with FAO, WFP, USAID, and Malian governmental organizations. All work done in rural villages was designed to be culturally sensitive.
Significant Academic Works • Thesis: “The Resource Curse: An Analysis of the Rentier State and Policy Solutions for Africa’s
Petro-State Development Dilemmas”
• “La Problématique de la Sécurité Alimentaire au Mali: Coordinating Efforts to Ensure Nutrition for
Nicholas Corcoran 8824 Pocono Dr.� Plano, TX 75025
Phone: 972.900.9009 � E-Mail: [email protected]
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the Malian Populace”
Language Skills In descending order of ability:
• French- from extensive college study resulting in a minor from Franklin College-Switzerland and immersion training while living in French-speaking Switzerland and West Africa.
• Arabic- from a year’s worth of accelerated study in Cairo and immersion training while living in Egypt and traveling in Middle East and North Africa. Enhanced with experiences during Egyptian revolution.
• Italian- from class work and immersion training while attending school in Italian-speaking Switzerland.
• Bambara- from semester abroad in Mali with heavy emphasis on fieldwork.
International Experience • Academic Travel to Iceland, October 10-30, 2010
Studied the degree to which renewable energy can be used to fully supply local power grids and the effect of the 2008 banking fallout and subsequent currency depreciation on the Icelandic economy.
• Academic Travel to Cyprus, March 7-22, 2009 Investigated the measure to which U.N. peacekeeping activities are working to maintain security in an ethnically divided island in the Mediterranean Sea.
• Academic Travel to Chile, October 11-26, 2008 Researched the effects of foreign direct investment and government policy and the subsequent environmental degradation on rural indigenous communities in context of sustainable development.
• Academic Travel to Croatia, March 1-15, 2008
Determined the effects of potential European Union integration as well as the importance of tourism in a post-war nation that is developing a national identity. Analyzed the effects at ongoing regional stability with the historical transformation of Kosovo into an independent nation.
• Academic Travel to Nice, France, October 13-28, 2007 Gained an up close perspective on how art and sculpture has affected the cultural development of France.
• Academic Travel to France and Spain, June 12-28, 2004
Participated in a language and cultural exchange trip throughout France and northern Spain.
Nicholas Corcoran 8824 Pocono Dr.� Plano, TX 75025
Phone: 972.900.9009 � E-Mail: [email protected]
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Further travels through: Australia, Austria, Bahrain, British Columbia, China, Czech Republic, Egypt, Ethiopia, Germany, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Latvia, Lithuania, Mali, Montreal, Morocco, Oman, Palestinian Territories, Quebec, Romania, Sweden, United Kingdom, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
Professional Experience I. Philanthropic Job-Shadow, Circle 10 Council BSA Jun 2010
Dallas, TX • Shadowed Endowment Director in management of non-profit fundraising. • Exposed to techniques for directing a 90 million dollar a successful capital
campaign and donor relationships. • Exposed to tax regulations and forms for charitable giving.
II. Office Intern, Blumberg Law Associates Jun-Aug 2009
Long Beach, CA • Electronically catalogued and organized 20 years of client contacts. • Served papers and court documents at offices and courts throughout Los
Angeles. • Organized and moved office records. Assisted with paperwork.
III. Development Intern, Mali Health Organization Project Nov-Dec 2009
Bamako, Mali • Assisted in grant writing, edited proposals, provided translations, and collected
data to build clinic in slum neighborhood in Bamako. • Utilized training in public health issues in Islamic West Africa to ensure that
contact with residents was culturally sensitive and directly applicable to their needs.
IV. Resident Assistant, Franklin College Switzerland Aug-May 2009
Lugano, Switzerland • Managed residence of over 30 students from multiple nationalities. • Compiled reports for Resident Life Coordinators. • Lead students on many excursions in the local community and abroad.
V. Assistant to Office of Communications and Media Jun-Jul 2008
Southern Methodist University • Organized media appearances for university, including articles, news
appearances, clips and photos, into their database software to archive. • Assisted with various office duties due to flexibility and resourcefulness
recognized by staff. • Utilized Excel, Word, and database software skills to better organization of
media.
International Leadership • Vice President and Co-Founder, Model United Nations Club – Franklin College-
Nicholas Corcoran 8824 Pocono Dr.� Plano, TX 75025
Phone: 972.900.9009 � E-Mail: [email protected]
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Switzerland
• International Student Leadership Conference, Democratic Reform in Middle East – American University in Cairo
• Judicial Board Member, Judicial Task Force Code Writer – Franklin College-Switzerland
• President and Co-Founder, Franklin College Outdoor Adventure Club – Franklin College, Switzerland
Awards and Affiliations I. Eagle Scout May 2007
• Conducted Eagle Scout service project to enhance the comfort and privacy of the clients served by Dallas Center for the Developmentally Disabled. Planned, adapted, and carried out 3-month project to support the mission of the agency.
• Served as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader for 125 scouts supported by 50 adult volunteers for 6 months.
• Attended 2001 National Boy Scout Jamboree at Fort AP Hill, Virginia.
II. National US Scouting Contingent to Ireland Jun 2006 • Helped develop recently formed Ireland and Northern Ireland unified scouting programs. • Participated in 2 week long outdoor camp around Ireland, sponsored by Irish government. • Learned about cultural and political trends in Ireland.
III. Model United Nations-Honorable Mention Iraqi Delegation Nov 2010
• Olomouc, Czech Republic
IV. Critical Language Scholarship Alternate Finalist in Arabic 2010, U.S. Department of State
V. Academic Awards: Franklin Scholar Award, Franklin College Dean’s List, and Franklin College Honor Society
Nicholas Corcoran 8824 Pocono Dr., Plano, TX 75025
T- 972.900.9009 [email protected] December 2, 2011 Research Internship Program Stratfor Global Intelligence 221 W. 6th Street, Suite 400 Austin, TX 78701 Dear Research Internship Program Selection Committee: After following George Friedman’s work with Stratfor for the last several years, I am interested to learn more about how the open source intelligence industry works. After I began to receive your weekly intelligence reports, I was impressed with your work in private intelligence and the diversity of services you offer to your clients. As a result of my interest in open source intelligence, I would like to join the research internship program Stratfor is sponsoring. I am available from January to May of 2011 and able to work approximately 30 hours a week. I am very interested in doing the program because I would like to explore a career in open source intelligence and Startfor is unquestionably a vanguard in the industry. The program would allow me to utilize my coursework in International Relations, History and Economics, my language skills in Arabic and French, and my experience living and traveling in Africa, the Middle East and Europe, so I could contribute to the analysis products you offer to your clients. As a recently graduated senior from Franklin College- Switzerland, I have a diverse skill set centered on Africa and the Middle East, with an emphasis on natural resources and energy politics. My degree in International Relations focused on coursework in International Economics, Energy Politics, Environmental Politics, and Political Science. As a result of my studies, I understand the importance of politics in developing countries that trade in world markets and how to harmonize the different motivations and objectives of governments and businesses regarding global trade. Combining my major with my French minor, I spent a semester in Mali studying food security and development to obtain a field-component to my degree. In addition to studying the French and Bambara languages, I wrote “La Problématique de la Sécurité Alimentaire au Mali: Coordinating Efforts to Ensure Nutrition for the Malian Populace.” This month-long research project allowed me a very unique opportunity to determine the food security situation and the effect of the global recession on neighborhood market food prices in Mali. I conducted research with FAO, WFP, USAID, and Malian governmental organizations. I synthesized many complex issues from a diverse group of governmental agencies to produce a holistic report. After leaving Mali, I spent two semesters in Cairo, Egypt, intensively studying Arabic, Middle Eastern Politics, Development Economics, and Petroleum Geology. It was while I was in Cairo during the spring of 2011 that I was able to participate in the Egyptian Revolution from its inception on the night of January 25th until I left Egypt in mid-May. This experience was a life-changing look at the reform movements sweeping the globe and an unmatched understanding of a very geopolitically important country. It was also in Cairo where I worked with the Libyan Student Association at the American University in Cairo to raise money and collect supplies to the Libyan Rebel army. It was confirmed to me by Libyan friends’ families that our work significantly helped their plight and eventually helped bring down Qadhafi. After returning to my home university in Switzerland, I culminated my studies with my thesis on the Rentier State in sub-Saharan Africa. With an understanding that politics and financial markets are inextricably linked in Africa, I wrote “The Resource Curse: An Analysis of the Rentier State and Policy Advice for
Africa’s Petro-State Development.” All of these unique experiences will allow me help gather, analyze and disseminate the information Startfor provides to is its clients as is required in the research internship program. With my educational background and international experience, I will immediately be able to contribute to the research and trend-analysis that Stratfor offers to its clients by helping to provide quality, consistent open source intelligence with my problem solving skills. I am very excited to learn the unique approach Stratfor uses to explain ‘how’ and ‘what will happen’ in international affairs based upon a geopolitical method. I have included my resume so that you can get a better idea of my experience and achievements and am happy to answer any questions or provide clarification. Thank you very much for your consideration, and I look forward to working with Stratfor Global Intelligence in the Research Internship Program. Respectfully Yours, Nicholas Corcoran
Nina Lehfer 2405 Rio Grande St, Apt. 303
Austin, TX 78705 512.940.7718 ~ [email protected]
Education! University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany! ! ! ! October 2009 - present! B.A., Governance and Public Policy („Staatswissenschaften“) GPA 3.3 ! with a concentration in Social Science and Law! ! !! The University of Texas at Austin!! ! ! ! Fall 2011! Exchange semester, Government
Relevant Experience! Federal Foreign Office of Germany ! ! ! ! Berlin, Germany! Human Rights Department Intern!! ! ! ! Feb 2011 - Apr 2011
• Edited and completed the death penalty list• Assisted in preparing, organizing and implementing the visit of Under-Secretary-
General, Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, Radhika Coomaraswamy
• Designed written replies to topical inquiries by non-governmental organizations• Participated in briefings and conferences on behalf of the department
Additional Experience/Activities! !! Ambassador for the University of Erfurt!! ! ! Since June 2010
• represented and presented my university at different high schools! Freshmen orientation advisor! ! ! ! ! October 2010
• explained study regulations• helped create their course schedules• organized group activities for them to get to know each other
! AEGEE Erfurt leadership council!! ! ! ! Since Oct 2010• planned and realised an excursion to Brussels for students• Organized and realised an international breakfast to bring local and international
students together!! Exchange student tutor! ! ! ! ! ! Since October 2010
• help exchange students to find their way at the new university and the city• participate in group activities to foster cultural exchange
! International Affairs Society, active member! ! ! Fall 2011• member of programs committee
Achievments! PROMOS Scholarship for the Advancement of Mobility of German Students! DAAD German Academic Exchange Service! ! ! Fall 2011!
SkillsLanguages! ! German (native), English (fluent), Spanish (intermediate), Russian ! ! ! (basic) Computer Skills! Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Excel, Apple Pages, Keynote, ! ! ! Numbers.! ! ! Windows and Macintosh operating systems.
Interests! ! Reading, table tennis, languages, traveling
After being introduced to your company by a presentation by the International
Affairs Society at the University of Texas at Austin, I am writing to express my interest in
Stratfor’s Research Internship Program. Currently, I study at the University of Erfurt,
Germany, and will graduate in December 2012 with a degree in Governance and Public
Policy with my main focus being social science and law. I have spent this fall semester as
an exchange student at UT Austin and have taken courses in the Department of
Government. I believe that my unique perspective as an international student will not only
bring diversity of character and experience in to the program, but also be of tremendous
help with the tasks at hand.
Although I am an extremely self motivated person who will always strive to achieve
beyond expectations, I am also eager to learn and develop both personally and
professionally. I work well both individually and in teams. I thrive in a fast paced
environment and possess a quick wit and an eye for detail, which I believe is
exceptionally well suited for the research intern position. I am also multilingual speaking
both German and English fluently, with intermediate knowledge of Spanish, and a basic
knowledge of Russian, which I believe puts me at a great advantage in comparison with
other candidates as a majority of reliable German news articles are not translated into
English, making them virtually useless for other interns.
During my internship at the Federal Foreign Office of Germany in the department
for Human Rights in Berlin I was able to gain invaluable experience in recognizing the
importance of up-to-date information and analysis. Being informed about and being able
to analyze current events is key to making good decisions. I communicated with the
different embassies all over the world to acquire information on different topics regarding
the death penalty and human rights abuses in order to process these information for
internal briefings and the decision-making process, and to answer any of their questions
regarding the German Federal Foreign Office’s stance on such issues. I learned how to
gather information effectively and how to pick out the relevant information for a given
problem. In the course of this internship, my main task was to gather all available data
regarding other countries positions on the death penalty through embassies, annual
reports from NGOs, human rights watch, UN reports, and amnesty international. After
gathering this data, it was my job to sort through and decide which portions were
essential to our files. With the information that I had gathered, the foreign office was able
to have a concise and up to date list of current countries with capital punishment, their
history and projected likelihood of continuing on the same path, in order to be used in
the commissioner of humans rights policy’s talks and negotiations with such countries.
Having had this opportunity in the past to work as a research assistant, I know the
great feeling of having great researching tools at your fingertips to not only help the
company in its goal of meeting the clients needs, but also to increase my own personal
knowledge of today’s current events and great issues at hand. Having had my previous
internship in Berlin, I’ve had a glimpse into the inter-workings of a research team, and
know that this opportunity would only add to my previous knowledge, and make it more
complete. Although researching internships may to some people seem monotonous and
mundane, I take pleasure in spending the necessary time to look into, and find the proper
facts about any given issue. I have both the patience and the keen eye for looking into
minute details, and the sharp wit to analyze said information for further details and key
information. Furthermore, the work required of your interns is extremely diverse with
regards to the issues of the day from politics, to business, to the simple geographical
locations covered, which makes for a great learning opportunity in an internship.
Knowing that I would be capable of making a difference in the way your clients go
through their decision making process and the outcome, through my research and
information gathering is a powerful motivator to want to be a part of this great endeavor.
When considering my future career in international politics and affairs, having as much
experience as possible learning about international affairs and policies is my number one
goal, and the ability to participate in your internship is the apotheosis of this goal.
As the spring semester of universities in Germany start on April 16th, I would be
able to start the internship on January 9th through April 6th working full time. As I would
have to apply for an extension to my student visa, I look forward to hearing soon from
you. The opportunity to study at an American university for a semester has thus far been
an amazing one, and I hope to continue my education on a different level at this
internship.
Wyatt Downey Research Internship / Spring 2012
Statement of Purpose
When I graduated from high school, I found myself unsure of what direction my life would take. This uncertainty left me hesitant to commit to a course of study or a major university. Lacking a clear path, I enrolled in community college and continued working my minimum wage job at Target. The days pressed on, and I determined two things – Target would not be in my long term future and I needed to leave my home, Dallas, Texas. The same year I came to those realizations I received a promotion, but I remained committed to a career outside of retail.
Needing an academic focus, I shuffled through my interests, strengths, and weaknesses to determine a suitable major. A deep interest in history had defined my academic career to that point. Winning the Hawk Award for History (an accolade for academic excellence at my high school), my voracious interest in history soon grew to include current affairs. Certain this passion would provide me with fulfillment and a comfortable lifestyle, the next step was finding an institution that would enable me to build a career on my fascination with international affairs. This led me to American University in Washington, D.C., and, eventually, across Western Europe. The work ethic that delivered me through a year and a half of being a full-time student and employee, made the adventure and intellectual stimulation I found over the next two and a half years possible. Now, as I complete my undergraduate career, I find myself focused and eager to enter the next phase of my life.
As the world faces the challenge of reshaping itself to deal with new crises and the long festering desires of populations denied opportunity and freedom, I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to analyze global affairs at a time of great consequence. Contributing my skills to STRATFOR would enable me to complete my bachelor’s degree, gain experience in the field of global affairs, and build the relationships essential to a successful career. My specific interest in a STRATFOR internship stems from your company’s commitment to in-depth analysis and forecasting. The opportunity to work with professionals experienced in providing subscribers with in-depth analysis and predictions of future developments would be invaluable to my professional development.
During my time at American University I was able to explore the nuances of global affairs with the assistance of professors who have dedicated their lives to the field, serving as experts in both the public and private sector. I was on the Dean’s List in the School of International Service twice during my two and a half years at American University. My academic credentials are underwritten by a deep interest in and commitment to following the daily details and larger trends of global affairs. Last fall I studied abroad in Paris, my first true international experience. In addition to augmenting my language skills, I drew from the experience a better understanding of the tangible consequences of international policy.
Wyatt Downey Research Internship / Spring 2012
Witnessing mass protests in Paris over the raising of the pension age and receiving warnings from the U.S. embassy about potential terrorist threats, served to reaffirm my belief that international affairs is much more than policy details. Human lives are directly affected by the interactions between nations. It is this belief that gives my interest in global affairs purpose.
In conjunction with my background in global affairs, my technological proficiency adds to my value as a candidate for the research internship. I am deeply familiar with Microsoft Office and social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.) Additionally, mastering new programs within a short time frame is one of my strengths.
I will be available to work 30-40 hours a week (morning or afternoon shifts) beginning January 1st, 2012. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your consideration.
Wyatt Downey
4600 Mueller Blvd. Apt.3083 214 437 5200
Austin, TX 78723 [email protected]
EDUCATION
American University, Washington, DC, May 2012
School of International Service Bachelor of Arts, International Studies: U.S. Foreign Policy Specialization Major GPA 3.2/4
Collin County Community College, Plano, TX, December 2008
RELEVANT COURSES AND PROJECTS
• World Politics
• Analysis of U.S. Foreign Policy
• Cross-Cultural Communication
• National Security: Wicked Problems
• President, Congress & Foreign Policy
• The United States & Pakistan
• Intro to International Relations Research
• Russia and The United States
• U.S. Foreign Policy: Latin America
SEMESTER ABROAD IN PARIS, FRANCE
Fall 2010
• Studied Grammar and Phonetics at La Sorbonne
SPECIAL SKILLS
• Proficient In Microsoft Office
• Intermediate French Skills
WORK EXPERIENCE
Salesperson November 2006 - July 2008 Target
Plano,TX
Team Leader July 2008 - December 2008 Target
Plano,TX
Canvasser Summer 2010
Texas Campaign for the Environment Dallas, TX