Zach and Mallory are just settling into their desks at PTPI World Headquarters this week, (hopefully) excited to spend the next four months as interns for the Student Department. Let’s get to know them a bit better…
1. So you both recently graduated, Mallory from Graceland University with a degree in International Studies and History (with minors in Peace Studies and Political Science); Zach from the University of Kansas with a degree in English and International Studies (with a minor in French).
What three words come to mind when you think about that fact that you are done with school, will be spending a lot of time at PTPI over the next few months and also have your future in front of you?
Mallory: Enthusiastic, Passionate, Terrified
Zach: Grateful; Excited; and Invigorating
2. Speaking of the future, what do you hope it holds, in terms of both a career and also personal goals?
Mallory: Right now I’m thinking about grad school and looking into different Cultural Anthropology and Archaeology programs around the country. I would love to spend my life digging up and dusting off ancient artifacts then telling you about “this old thing I found.” I am also very interested in and passionate about all different cultures. We’re all living in this world together and it is going to take coming together as people to resolve the world’s issues. I want to be a part of that transformation.
Zach: Next fall I plan on studying international affairs in graduate school (hopefully in Washington D.C.!). I hope to someday be able to use my academic and professional experiences in an eventual career in public service. Working for the U.S. Department of State, either in the Civil or Foreign Service, would be an ideal career for me! In regard to my personal goals, I just want to use my talents and abilities to make a positive difference in the world. Helping other people and trying to resolve conflict in all aspects of life are important ideals to me.
3. Now back to the past, you both appear to be very interested in International Studies (as you both have majors in the subject). What sparked this interest?
Mallory: My interest was sparked at a young age because my mother worked for the airlines so travel was feasible. I have had the opportunity to experience cultures around the United States as well as in six European countries. Exploring cultures really motivates me and I was lucky to figure out what path I wanted to take by the time I got to college.
Zach: I have always had an interest in learning about foreign cultures, languages, and peoples. It is extremely fascinating to compare the way other people live around the world to your own life. International studies seemed to suit these interests. Through my college coursework, I had the wonderful opportunity to learn even more about other cultures, countries, and systems of government. It also fit in well with my French minor!
4. Any words of advice for members of PTPI who might have similar interests?
Mallory: Research is a great way to gain intercultural insight. The internet is an amazing tool that makes it so easy to gain knowledge of places all over the world. Also, travel as much as you possibly can!
Zach: Read often, travel as much as possible, help others, and enjoy life!
5. Are there any words you live by?
Mallory: Go after the things you want and don’t let anybody tell you they are too far out of reach. If the desire and the drive is there, so is a way to accomplish your goals and dreams.
Zach: “There is no fate that cannot be surmounted through scorn.” -Albert Camus
