Independent Practica
October 21, 2015 (Monterey, CA)
As I stepped off the plane in Monterey, I instantly questioned why I decided to finish my last semester from Washington, D.C. Although the nation’s capital has a plethora of history, job opportunities, and an incredible nightlife, there is nothing quite like the cool coastal breeze to remind me I went to grad school in paradise.
I applied for Immersive Learning Funds for four main reasons. I wanted to attend a workshop on Pakistan’s nuclear program taught by a world renowned professor. I wanted to meet with my directed study advisor on the progress of my research. I wanted to utilize the fantastic terrorism library at MIIS and I wanted to engage students at MIIS on potential job opportunities in Washington, D.C.
I can say that I successfully accomplished all of my goals. When I arrived Friday morning, I immediately went to the MIIS library and begun my directed study research. I was able to utilize seven separate titles in the MIIS library that strengthened my research data.
I was so busy that I was almost late to CNS for a meeting with my directed study advisor. Besides my research, we talked about future career opportunities, current CNS research, and other more personal topics. After my meeting, I grabbed a quick bite and headed to the first day of my workshop.
The workshop was worth the trip alone. Professor Feroz Khan is a Naval Postgraduate School professor and former Brigadier General in the Pakistan Army. He was instrumental in setting up Pakistan’s nuclear policy directorate shortly after their nuclear weapons test in May of 1998. Assisting him, Mohammad Umer Khan, a MIIS student, lectured on his experience working in the Pakistan government. All three days of lecture enriched my personal and professional knowledge of the topic. Fortunately, I conducted library research on Friday afternoon because the power was out for most of the Monterey Peninsula.
Friday and Saturday night I gathered with a group of friends and had drinks at the Crown and Anchor. We talked about future career opportunities, school, and post-graduation plans. I can say that I really enjoyed my weekend in Monterey and I recommend all students to apply for Immersive Learning Funds in the future.
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