Over the summer, students from Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) embarked on various enriching experiences around the world, gaining hands-on learning opportunities to prepare for careers in international affairs. From South Africa to Switzerland to Kazakhstan, these students engaged in real-world casework, internships, and educational programs to build their skills and resumes.
Abdullah Bin Masood and Obaid Ullah, both students at GU-Q, were selected for an intensive 8-week consulting internship at diiVe in South Africa. During their time there, they developed solutions for clients, with Abdullah’s team creating a monitoring and evaluation framework and funding strategies for a non-profit youth unemployment agency. Their recommendations were well-received and set for implementation, reinforcing Abdullah’s passion for using business acumen to drive social impact.
Ibrahim Absar, another GU-Q student, focused on advancing his consulting goals at the London School of Economics (LSE), where he studied innovation management. He emphasized the importance of executing bold ideas in ways that truly transform industries, preparing him for a future in strategy consulting. Areesha Fatima, an International Economics major, also took advantage of the summer to develop technical skills in econometrics and big data.
Anupa Khanal, an International Economics major, spent her summer in Vienna, Austria, participating in the Alternative Economic and Monetary Systems intensive program. With a focus on circular economics and the impact of sovereign wealth funds, Anupa deepened her understanding of economic solutions to the climate crisis. Similarly, Aras Karlidag, an International Politics major, gained valuable experience in Milan, Italy, as a Lex Fellow, where he received legal training and worked on active cases at various law firms.
For future diplomats, building networks and learning diplomacy from expert practitioners was key. Abdul Hannan, a student at GU-Q, immersed himself in the culture and politics of Europe at the Graz University International Summer School in Austria. Studying the European Union and gaining knowledge of intercultural skills, Abdul felt prepared for globally focused roles that require insights into territorial disputes, demographic shifts, and regional transformations affecting global stability and cooperation.
The experiences of GU-Q students over the summer highlight the diverse opportunities available for students looking to pursue careers in international affairs. From consulting internships in South Africa to legal training in Milan, these students gained valuable skills and insights that will prepare them for successful and impactful careers in their respective fields. As they return to GU-Q for the new academic year, they bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experiences that will enrich their learning and contribute to their growth as future leaders in international affairs.
