Creating a Life Defined by Service and Purpose
Name: Christine Markosky
Degree Program: Master of International Public Policy (MIPP)
Before joining the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), what were you doing?
Before joining SAIS, I got my start in public service on Capitol Hill as a congressional intern for former Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, an experience that gave me my first exposure to policy creation and sparked my interest in international affairs. After that, I joined the United States Marine Corps, where I served as a Spanish and French linguist in support of humanitarian aid missions across Central America and the Caribbean. This fieldwork, along with my later support of Afghan refugee resettlement efforts in the U.S. after the 2021 withdrawal, showed me how media narratives influence the public’s understanding of global events and policymaking. I went on to earn a bachelor of science from Norwich University in strategic studies and defense analysis and later earned my first master's in communications from Johns Hopkins, focusing on political and media communications.
Former Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (far left) His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan (center), and me (front and to the right of the king)
What led you to Johns Hopkins SAIS?
I believe in constantly challenging myself to grow as a leader. SAIS stood out to me because of its rigorous courses, distinguished faculty, and strong alumni network. I view SAIS as the ideal place to strengthen my analytical skills and explore how strategic communications can influence policy and public perception around the world.
What has been your favorite experience at SAIS and why?
Christine (middle left) with fellow SAIS students Jeffrey Larson (far left), Rachel Hile (middle right), and Tarunika Senthilkumar (far right)
My favorite experience has been collaborating closely with my peers and learning from their incredible range of knowledge and perspectives. Most recently, I had the opportunity to work with Jeffrey Larson, Rachel Hile, and Tarunika Senthilkumar in a group project for our Leadership in China course. The assignment was challenging and pushed us to combine our diverse backgrounds to develop creative solutions. It was an extremely valuable experience, and it was motivating to work with such talented and driven peers.
The Marine Corps taught me to be comfortable with being uncomfortable, and how to lead with purpose caring for others.
How has your time in the military helped you with personal and professional growth?
My time in the Marine Corps shaped how I approach leadership, discipline, and communication. It gave me the opportunity to rise beyond the circumstances I grew up in and create a life defined by service and purpose. I served as a linguist using French, my native Spanish language—at the professional speaking level—and had the opportunity to learn Miskito (an indigenous language) while deployed. I developed a deep understanding of cultural boundaries, teamwork, and adaptability under pressure, which encouraged me to learn more about the world. This led me to start learning Korean, as well as volunteer in support of the Afghan refugees and underprivileged communities. Most importantly, the Marine Corps taught me to be comfortable with being uncomfortable, and how to lead with purpose caring for others. These experiences continue to influence how I collaborate with others at SAIS and in my professional life.
Where do you see yourself five to 10 years after graduation?
In five to 10 years, I hope to be working in politics to bridge communication and policy to help shape how governments and organizations respond to refugees and humanitarian challenges. My experience on Capitol Hill and with communities in Central America gave me a firsthand understanding of how language and cultural awareness can open doors to trust and collaboration. The opportunity to support Afghan refugee resettlement efforts across the Washington, D.C. region after the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan also deepened my passion for global engagement. I hope to continue using my language abilities in Spanish, French, and Miskito, and to perfect my Korean by then as well.
What is one piece of advice you would give to students in the process of choosing graduate schools?
As a full-time student who also works full-time, I have found that the ability to strengthen my analytical skills and directly apply them to work is invaluable. For future students in similar positions, I would encourage them to focus on finding a program that aligns with their values, schedules, and challenges. I would also encourage them to create their own opportunities and never be afraid to advocate for themselves.
Whose support has made your journey to SAIS possible and why?
I am very grateful to my spouse for encouraging me to apply to SAIS and for supporting me throughout my studies, all while he simultaneously earns his master's degree. Balancing our programs and our full-time jobs has not been easy, but his constant motivation and belief in me have made this journey possible.
If you are looking to learn more about what it's like to be a current student at Johns Hopkins SAIS, we encourage you to schedule a virtual appointment with one of our Admissions Fellows.
Enjoyed reading Christine's experience? Learn more about our Master of International Public Policy (MIPP).
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