Welcome to Brazen Careerist!

About Me

In both my academic pursuits and work experience I have focused on researching international affairs. During May, June, and July 2009 I studied intensive Mandarin Chinese in Harbin, China through a Michigan State University study abroad program. Through my current internship with the International Trade Administration, I have discovered an interest in international trade relations and trade promotion. As a lifelong resident of West Michigan, I am also passionate about promoting community and economic development throughout the region.

After completing my undergraduate degree in International Relations and Asian Studies specialization, I hope to combine my interests in international business and Michigan's economic success by working to assist local companies expand their businesses to participate in the global marketplace, while also defending against unfair business practices carried out by foreign companies.

I am interning full time this spring with the International Trade Administration in Washington, D.C. I am available to intern full time beginning in May 2010.

Work History

• International Trade Administration
• China/Non-Market Economy Office Intern
• January 2010 to Present

• • Assisted in a scope ruling investigation, including contacting interested parties, drafting memos, and maintaining the work file
  • Released documents to interested parties and updated case records
  • Analyzed Chinese and Vietnamese company documents for evidence of government control

• Michigan State University Office of Risk Management and Insurance
• Student Office Assistant
• September 2008 to December 2009

• • Maintained database of campus incidents and documentation for use in monitoring campus risk management
  • Handled incoming and outgoing mail, including sensitive and confidential documents
  • Compiled survey results and policy expiration dates for use in planning and office organization

• Michigan State University Geography Department
• Research Assistant
• September 2008 to May 2009

• • Conducted research on the development of Information Communication Technologies in the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Sub-Saharan Africa
  • Composed draft articles analyzing empirical data and individual country policies
  • Contributed to Professor Kenneth Corey and Professor Mark Wilson’s forthcoming database of worldwide Information Communication Technology development

Education

• Michigan State University
• B.A., International Relations, Asian Studies Specialization
• 2007 - 2011

• In pursuing my B.A. in International Relations, I have focused my studies on East Asia, in particular Chinese politics and culture. Language skills include conversational Mandarin Chinese and French.

• Harbin Institute of Technology
• Study Abroad, Chinese Language and Culture
• 2009 - 2009

• • Studied intensive Mandarin Chinese, completing one year of coursework
  • Explored Chinese culture and history through seminars and excursions
  • Communicated with native Chinese speakers to complete both day-to-day tasks and discuss current affairs