Meet Yuchen Lee – GW Global Communication Program, Class of 2025 (Public Diplomacy Concentration)

Why did you choose the GW Global Communication program?

Before applying to graduate school, the only thing I was certain about was that I wanted to
study public diplomacy. I wasn’t tied to any specific university or city—I was focused on
finding a program that aligned with my interests. During my search, I came across the Global
Communication program at GW, and it immediately stood out. It offers a strong academic
foundation with courses specifically designed around public diplomacy, cultural diplomacy,
and global communication. That kind of specialization isn’t easy to find in the U.S.

Another major factor was the Institute for Public Diplomacy and Global Communication
(IPDGC) at GW. It offers seminars, networking events, and hands-on workshops that
complement what we learn in class. As someone trying to build a career in this field, having
access to those kinds of extracurricular resources was important. I wanted a program that
would support me both academically and professionally, and I felt like GW could do both.

What’s been your favorite experience in the program so far?

I’ve had many memorable experiences here, but one that had a major impact was the Cultural
Diplomacy and Engagement Workshop hosted by IPDGC and the Corcoran School of the
Arts and Design during my first semester. It wasn’t just a one-time event—it was a month-
long series that brought in experienced practitioners, particularly from American Voices, an
organization that focuses on cultural exchange through music and the arts.

The instructors were cultural diplomacy professionals who also happened to be musicians,
and they shared their real-world experiences—from running programs abroad to
collaborating with local partners. We didn’t just listen; we participated. We learned how to
apply for grants, write proposals, and design our own cultural diplomacy initiatives. At the
end, we pitched our project ideas, which was a great way to apply what we’d learned in a
practical setting. That workshop gave me confidence in my interests and helped clarify what
kind of work I want to do after graduation.

How has the program shaped your career goals or professional interests?

Coming into the program, I already had a general sense of my professional goals, but the
program helped sharpen them. The course offerings have been especially helpful—classes
like Public Diplomacy, Political Communication, Media and Foreign Policy, and even
electives outside the department helped me develop a stronger academic base.

I’ve also taken courses in Asian Studies and International Affairs, which tie into my interest
in East Asia, specifically Taiwan’s international relations. I appreciate that GW allows
students to explore topics across schools and departments. The access to Elliott School
courses and resources has been a big plus.

Beyond academics, the professional connections I’ve made have been incredibly valuable.
Two professors I took classes with ended up writing recommendation letters for me, and even
helped me land my current internship. That kind of mentorship and support makes a huge
difference, especially for international students like me trying to build a network in D.C.

Tell us more about your internships and how they connect to what you’ve learned at GW.

I currently have two internships. One is with the Public Diplomacy Council of America, a
nonprofit that supports professionals in the field. We organize regular seminars and events on
current issues in public diplomacy. The other is at the Global Taiwan Institute, a D.C.-based
think tank focused on U.S.-Taiwan relations.

At both organizations, I work on communications—especially social media. The skills I’ve
gained in the program, from understanding how to craft strategic messages to navigating
media platforms, have been directly relevant. I’ve also had the chance to do more research-
oriented work. At GTI, for example, I’m involved in a project looking at Chinese
disinformation efforts in Taiwan, a topic we’ve explored in several classes.

The internships haven’t just been a line on my resume—they’ve been extensions of the
classroom, allowing me to apply theories and skills in real-world contexts. I also feel more
confident now when approaching professional spaces, because I can draw from both
academic knowledge and practical experience.

What advice do you have for admitted students?

The best advice I received came from a Fulbright advisor before I started grad school. They
told me: be clear about what you want to do after the program. Whether you’re aiming for a
PhD or planning to enter the workforce, having a goal will help you stay focused. That
mindset helped me stay grounded during my time at GW—I knew what I wanted to get out of
the program, which made it easier to choose the right courses, internships, and opportunities.

Second, stay open to new experiences. There are so many resources here—from student
events to expert panels—and D.C. is full of think tanks, NGOs, and international institutions.
GW’s location is a huge advantage, but you have to be proactive about seeking things out. If I
could do anything differently, I’d probably push myself even more to attend events outside
My academic focus and connect with different groups on campus.

Finally, build relationships—with classmates, professors, and professionals you meet along
the way. Those connections can open doors, offer support, and help you navigate your career.
Some of the people I met here have already made a real difference in my academic and
professional life. And in the long term, your network becomes a shared resource that
everyone benefits from.