Oliver Roberts ’26: Dabbling in Diplomats
Discover the enriching journey of TFAS alumnus Oliver Roberts ’26, a history major from Texas Christian University, who discovered a whole new world during his transformative summer in Washington, D.C.
🏫 University: Texas Christian University
📚 Major: History
📍 Hometown: Commerce, TX
🧭 Program Track: International Affairs
💼 Internship: Center for a Free Cuba
How has your TFAS Summer impacted you, professionally and/or personally?
🫶 A Sense of Belonging
My TFAS Summer has solidified my interest in working in international affairs. Through TFAS programming, I have had the invaluable opportunity to meet State Department officials, foreign diplomats and TFAS peers. These connections with people who share similar passions have been one of the most rewarding parts of my summer, giving me confidence that the international affairs community is where I belong.
What was the most interesting thing you did at your internship?
👨🏻💼 Mr. Diplomat
The highlight of my internship with the Center for a Free Cuba was participating directly in briefings with foreign diplomats, which allowed me to experience firsthand what it is like to work as a diplomat. I took notes, asked questions and contributed to the conversations in both English and Spanish. Our team briefed embassy staffers on Cuban and Latin American issues, including the current humanitarian crisis in Cuba, Cuban political prisoners and regional security threats. Meanwhile, staffers shared their governments’ positions on diplomatic relations with Havana.
What did you like most about living in Washington, D.C.?
👟 Doing it ALL
Washington, D.C. is a great city for anyone who enjoys meeting new people, learning about history and culture and having new experiences. For example, in one day I was able to grab coffee with European diplomats in Dupont Circle, visit the International Spy Museum with TFAS friends, participate in a peaceful demonstration at the Cuban embassy for my internship, watch a FIFA World Cup game and enjoy D.C.’s nightlife with friends from my TFAS dorm floor, then attend mass at 9:00 AM the next morning in a basilica with friends from TFAS. Few places offer such a wide variety of experiences.
How have the TFAS networking events helped you expand your professional circle?
🔮 Making Connections for the Future
TFAS networking events have allowed me to meet and learn from TFAS alumni working in international affairs. The alumni are truly interested in connecting with and helping TFAS students find their way in Washington, D.C. Furthermore, living with your 300-student TFAS cohort in GWU’s District House allows you to build relationships with peers you will likely see again at graduate school or the workplace.
What advice do you have for future TFAS students?
🤘 #YOLO
Living in Washington, D.C., around your early twenties is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so be present in all your opportunities. Furthermore, the eight weeks fly by, so it is worth stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things.