Virginia buffum ’25: Living the dream
Discover the enriching journey of TFAS alumna Virginia Buffum ’25, a political science major from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, who discovered a whole new world during her transformative summer in Washington, D.C.
🏫 University: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
📚 Major: Political science
📍 Hometown: Raleigh, NC
🧭 Program Track: International Affairs
💼 Internship: Orion Policy Institute
How has your TFAS Summer impacted you?
🧘♀️ Gaining Clarity and Confidence
My TFAS Summer was all around a life-changing experience that provided me with clarity and confidence! TFAS was transformative for mapping my career path. Coming into the summer, I knew I was passionate about international relations, but I didn’t know exactly how that passion could translate into a career. Through my internship, career small groups and networking events, where I could hear from seasoned D.C. professionals, my eyes were opened to many different avenues of work in international affairs that I would have never been exposed to without this experience. This summer provided clarity and professional guidance, and I also discovered interests and passions that I did not even know I had. Thanks to TFAS, I am now moving into my professional future with clear direction and confidence!
What was the most interesting thing you did at your internship?
✍️ Writing Change in Action
The most interesting and rewarding thing I did was co-authoring my first-ever publication — a policy brief — for the Orion Policy Institute. This piece, which focused on women’s involvement in peacebuilding efforts in Ethiopia, was part of Orion’s recent research series, “Women and the Path to Peace in Africa.” As a research intern, I had the opportunity to delve into and deepen my knowledge on the topics I care about most, such as women’s empowerment and human rights. Contributing to Orion’s research and policy work was incredibly fulfilling. This internship made me feel like I played a small yet meaningful role in promoting more informed decision-making in international affairs.
🌍 Trying This and Trying That
Beyond the publication, another favorite aspect of my internship was the weekly policy seminars Orion organized for my intern cohort. Each week, we had the opportunity to learn about various global issues from industry experts, expanding our knowledge in topics such as global security threats, technology, security and counterterrorism. Some of these seminars also included outings to the U.S. Capitol, where I attended a Senate hearing and toured the building. We also went to American University to learn about their graduate programs and receive professional advice. These seminars enabled us to leverage the wealth of expertise from Orion’s policy fellows while also exploring the unique world of D.C.
What did you like most about living in Washington, D.C.?
💭 A Dream Come True
I absolutely adore Washington, D.C., and after living there for even a short time, it quickly became one of my favorite cities! I loved the energy and feeling of being right in the hub of all things politics and government. After spending years in the classroom learning about policymaking and the American government, it was surreal to be right in the center of policy in motion! As a history lover, I also enjoyed being in a city packed with so much history around every corner. The historic landmarks, Smithsonian museums and monuments gave me a newfound appreciation for my country’s past. My top moment from D.C. was watching a beautiful summer sunset on the National Mall, looking at the Washington Monument.
What skill or mindset did you leave D.C. with that you didn’t have before?
👩🏫 Student of Life, for Life
This summer, I left D.C. with a professional mindset of being a continuous learner. The TFAS networking events and alumni dinners taught me that in a city like D.C., you never know who you are talking to. I quickly realized that whether it was former ambassadors, public servants, government officials or even fellow interns I got to converse with, everybody has something to learn from!
🚀 Uncomfortable is the New Comfortable
I have also developed the attitude of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. Before this summer, I was often hesitant to take the initiative and reluctant to put myself out there. Although it was easy to feel intimidated in settings like D.C., I learned that actively embracing discomfort is always worthwhile and is where the most professional growth occurs. I am leaving the program feeling more confident and eager to embrace challenges.
How have the TFAS networking events helped you expand your professional circle?
🎶 Mix It!
One of the most valuable events that TFAS organized was the Mentor Mixer, which grouped students with professionals working in our fields of interest. I was able to ask these mentors about their career paths, their day-to-day work and what advice they would give to college students in my position. In a city where networking is key to success, forming these relationships as a 20-year-old intern was invaluable. I left the summer with an expanded contact list of experienced professionals and a larger repertoire of people I can continue connecting with as I start my professional journey.