What does it take to be a Colin Powell Fellow?  Samson Peng, a Baruch scholar and a recipient of the 2012 Colin Powell Fellowship in International Diplomacy tells us more about his summer at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.

Please tell us more about the Colin Powell Fellowship and what the experience has meant for you.

The Colin Powell Fellowship Program, funded by the Weissman Center for International Business, annually places students with internship opportunities at the U.S. Department of State.  For me, it was a wonderful opportunity to experience diplomacy, explore public service and develop a better understanding of how the United States interacts with countries worldwide.

How has your education at Baruch prepared you for this fellowship?

At Baruch, some of my favorite courses were focused on international economics. Equipped with foundational knowledge gained at Baruch, I loved seeing classroom theories come alive in offices and conference rooms. From observing dozens of diplomats engage in multilateral trade discussions and participating in interagency meetings focused on improving policy to reporting on international efforts to find solutions to economic interests, I had a wonderful time applying a backdrop of classroom education to everyday work activities.

What did your role at the State Department entail?

Tasks and projects which were assigned to me were those that would normally be completed by officers themselves.  Projects were always meaningful, and interns had the opportunity to be involved in real issues affecting people worldwide. By the end of my summer, I had worked on different projects ranging from analyzing country trade statistics and compiling reports for trade negotiations to researching international environmental regulations. Opportunities to dabble in different areas of diplomacy/public service were constantly within reach.

What was one highlight working for the State Department?

This summer I was fortunate to have the opportunity to see that skillsets of a business background and growing up surrounded in New York’s unique culture go hand in hand not only in private sector careers but also in public service.  My internship at the State Department exceeded my expectations in every way.  I find it challenging to highlight aspects of an internship which offers such a unique experience.

Could you leave us with your closing thoughts about your fellowship experience?

The Colin Powell Fellowship led to one of the most intellectually stimulating, rewarding and laughter-filled opportunities I’ve had during my college experience (including riding the DC Metro System!) I am thankful to have had the pleasure of receiving it and hope that I can give prospective students insight on what potentially awaits them upon applying.

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Note from the Editor: The Colin Powell fellowship is an annual fellowship available to Baruch students who have an interest in public affairs and policy.  This year’s application deadline is November 1st.  For more information about the fellowship, please drop by the Weissman Center; we’re located at 137 E. 25 St. 8th Fl. (across the street from the Vertical Campus.)