Meet Melina Benjamin – GW Global Communication Program, Class of 2026

Why did you choose the GW Global Communication program?
What drew me to GW’s Global Communication program was its structure and how thoughtfully it’s built. I appreciated that it offered a strong mix of theory and technical skills—things you need to succeed in the field. The capstone project especially stood out. The idea of working with a real-world client to solve a current communications challenge felt like a valuable way to put everything we’d learned into practice.

I also liked that the program is housed jointly in the Elliott School of International Affairs and the School of Media and Public Affairs. You really get the best of both worlds. That dual focus allows you to build a communications skill set grounded in global context—something that felt like a perfect match for my interests.

At the time I was deciding, I’d already been living in Washington, D.C. for nearly three years. I loved the city and felt like I wasn’t done here yet professionally or personally. Since D.C. is such a center for policy, global work, and communications, I knew it was the right place to keep building my career. Being able to attend classes and continue working in the city made the transition to grad school feel really natural.

What’s been your favorite experience in the program so far?
I’ve really enjoyed a number of classes, but one that stands out is Public Relations and Politics with Professor Murphy, which I’m taking this semester. It’s been one of the most engaging courses so far. She’s very intentional about bringing in guest speakers—people actually working in the field—which adds so much depth to our learning. We’ve heard not just from PR professionals but also from journalists, which has helped us understand how the two roles intersect and rely on one another.

The course is also very hands-on. We’re not just talking about communications—we’re writing press releases, creating media pitches, and building crisis comms plans. That kind of practical training is incredibly valuable.

Outside the classroom, one experience that’s been equally impactful has been participating in the Elliott School’s Career Center events. I’ve especially gotten a lot out of the employer site visits. They’ve helped me understand the many directions you can take with a degree in global communication. It’s been eye-opening to see how broad the field really is.

And I have to say, one of the best parts of the program has been the people. Our cohort is such a supportive, tight-knit group. We’ve really built a community together—inside and outside of class. It’s made the experience so much richer.

How did you feel when you first joined the program, and what was your experience with the cohort like?
When I was applying to grad school, I knew I didn’t want an experience where I just came to class and went home. I was looking for a community, and I found that at GW. From admitted students day to orientation and beyond, I felt welcomed. I even attended a happy hour hosted by the program director before classes began, and it really set the tone. Everyone was open, kind, and eager to connect.

What I’ve loved most is that the sense of community doesn’t stop with your cohort. You end up meeting students in other programs, too, especially when you take electives across the Elliott School and SMPA. The people here genuinely want to build relationships; not just professional networks, but real support systems and friendships. That’s something I’ve really valued.

How has the program shaped your career goals or professional interests?
This program has helped me see that I definitely want to continue in global communications—but I don’t have to be confined to one specific sector. Whether it’s government, nonprofit, or the private sector, there are so many ways to apply what we’re learning. That realization has been important for me.

With guidance from the Career Center and my professors, I’ve explored different types of organizations and roles. And in a city like D.C., where the job landscape can shift quickly, I’ve had to stay open and adaptable. This program has helped me think through those changes thoughtfully and reflect on what I want next.

I now know I’m interested in strategic communications—but that doesn’t lock me into a single path. I’m open to applying those skills in different areas, from policy and advocacy to public affairs or global development. The program’s broad reach has helped me feel more confident navigating that space.

What advice do you have for admitted students?
First, think about the technical skills you want to gain. It’s easy to focus only on subject matter, but the hands-on communication skills—things like writing for media, digital strategy, or data visualization—are what make you stand out professionally. Look into GW’s skills-based courses, especially the ones offered through SMPA. Also check out free workshops or trainings—both on campus and across D.C.

Having already worked for a few years before starting grad school, I know how important those skills are in the workplace. And once you have them, you can apply them to whatever issue or region you care about—climate, gender, global health, East Asia—anything.

Second, take full advantage of all the events, site visits, and panels through the Elliott School Career Center. There’s so much happening all the time. You never know which conversation or event might spark an interest or open a door. Be proactive and open-minded. Throw yourself into every opportunity, even if it feels outside your comfort zone. That’s where growth happens.