A Desire to Influence U.S. Foreign Policy at the Highest Levels
Name: Mallory O’Malley
Home Country: USA
Degree: Doctor of International Affairs (DIA)
Before joining the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), what were you doing?
Just before SAIS, I was (and am currently) working as an international program manager at Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), helping combat the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction throughout the globe. Before that, I was an active-duty U.S. Air Force officer, managing multi-million-dollar defense contracts for eight years.What led you to Johns Hopkins SAIS?
I am a practitioner of foreign policy, and I have a desire to influence U.S. foreign policy at the highest levels. With the great reputation and resources that SAIS offers, I know this is the place to advance my education to meet my professional goals.What has been your favorite experience at SAIS and why?
My favorite experience at SAIS has been the opportunity to meet my fellow candidates in the Doctor of International Affairs program. It’s been incredibly rewarding getting to know my peers and their diverse personal and professional backgrounds.What do you plan on pursuing after graduation?
After graduation, I would like to help guide U.S. foreign policy at the highest levels within the national security community.What is one piece of advice you would give to students in the process of choosing graduate schools?
Choose a school where you can’t help but be inspired. SAIS certainly embodies this for me. It’s hard not to be inspired to be a leader in government with the Capitol just next door. Further, SAIS’ professors and students challenge me every day to test the boundaries of my knowledge and continuously expand my horizons.What are you most looking forward to participating in during your time at SAIS?
I’m most looking forward to the mentorship from professors and learning from my classmates.
Caption: Coming home from deployment with my wife, Jerice, and our dog, Ryder.
Whose support has made your journey to SAIS possible and why?
My journey to SAIS was made possible by the loving support of my partner and our two young boys.The Air Force taught me to strive for excellence, no matter the circumstances.
How has your time in the military helped you with personal and professional growth?
The U.S. military gave me a deep sense of purpose and commitment to democratic ideals. I carry with me the lessons on leadership, responsibility, resilience, and adaptability. The Air Force taught me to strive for excellence, no matter the circumstances. And the importance of teamwork and staying calm when things get tough and lifting others up when they need it most. I learned to listen before acting, to think strategically, and to act decisively. And to always stay true to the ideals of integrity, service, and excellence.
Caption: Deployed to the Persian Gulf in 2019.
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Enjoyed reading Mallory O’Malley experience? Learn more about our Doctor of International Affairs (DIA).
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