Alumni Success with Jolisse

Transcript

Let’s say hello to Jolisse. Jolisse is an alum of Notre Dame that majored in International Studies, whose student experience paved the way for a career directly after graduation. At NDMU, 90% of students participate in internships, research, or other experiential learning pursuits. Jolisse, tell us all about your experience at NDMU and how it helped you launch your professional career. Take it away.

– Thanks, Alex. Coming from a small town in northern New Jersey, I never would’ve pictured myself right here in Baltimore City, Maryland, but it was the right amount of adventure and excitement that I was seeking. Only an hour away from Washington, D.C. and with its status as a non-governmental organization with the United Nations, NDMU was the perfect environment for me. The political science professors had a distinct focus on women’s issues. These courses prepared me for success to become the university’s first Newman Civic Fellow, where I spearheaded a campaign to discuss the divisiveness and politics and strategies to combat this societal issue. During COVID-19, I was nominated at Notre Dame student representative for the Maryland Higher Education Commission. From there, I was awarded a full scholarship to the Leadership and American Presidency Program with the Fund for American Studies in the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. With this program, I was able to live, attend classes, and work as a research assistant for the Global Disinformation Index, all right here in our nation’s capital. I soon became a defense policy intern, addressing cyber campaigns and the defense industrial base at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. And from there, I was awarded the National Defense Fellowship. Through this fellowship, I was able to engage with top military officials, congressional representatives, and private industry leaders discussing current issues impacting US national security interests. A professor of mine assisted me with my research, analyzing disinformation campaigns sponsored by China and Russia. Just a few weeks before my graduation, I received the grand prize for best undergraduate research presentation at Notre Dame’s Nancy Kreiter Research Day. I soon was the only undergraduate student to present at the International Studies Association Security Studies Section for that year. Best piece of advice is to seize every opportunity here at Notre Dame. Notre Dame’s staff and faculty will truly help you achieve your dreams. In fact, I was able to start a full-time position the day after I graduated. And coming as a small town girl, I would’ve never imagined I’d be traveling the world and making a difference in our nation’s security, but I am now because of Notre Dame. Back to you, Alex.

– Thank you, Jolisse. What a tremendous foundation for life after graduation. Students at NDMU build invaluable relationships with mentors and professionals in their field. They guide students and enhance their learning and help advance their careers. The classroom is only the start of your NDMU story. Thanks again, Jolisse.