Elizabeth Hammer ('13)

Major: Political Science 
Graduate Degree: M.A. in Political Science, European Union Policy Studies, JMU Florence, Italy

Current job:
Deputy Chief and Chief, Air and Space Programs, Office of Defense Cooperation, U.S. Embassy London. 

Previous professional experience: 
I am a 12-year professional in the U.S. Department of Defense specializing in Security Cooperation and Technology Security and Foreign Disclosure. I have worked with two Service International Affairs offices, Navy and Air Force, as well as the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Policy, Defense Security Cooperation Agency. My career is focused on increasing partnerships between the U.S. and our allies and partners through equipment sales, industrial participation, and key leader engagements.   

In what ways did the JMU Political Science Department prepare you for your career?
The Washington Semester (Spring 2012) set me on the path for federal employment. I interned at the U.S. Department of State on the Turkey desk. During that internship I learned to synthesize information into prose appropriate for Secretary-level consumption, analyze complex problem sets and make policy recommendations, and how to liaise with different offices both inside State Department and outside with other agencies. The JMU European Union Policy Studies Master’s program furthered that experience by elevating my critical thinking and writing skills. The trips where we engaged with Members of the European Parliament and NATO staff were especially critical, as they provided insight into how a bureaucracy of that magnitude operates and creates policy.

Highlights of your JMU experience

1. Attending a “press avail” with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during my Department of State internship. This was my first experience with a leader at that level. It was incredible to watch and listen to her address U.S. and international media on the Syrian crisis.
   2. Visiting the U.S. Mission to NATO on the European Union Policy Studies trip. This was my first visit to an embassy. Learning how embassies engage within NATO and with agencies in the U.S. government was fascinating and increased my desire to become a federal employee and, eventually, a diplomat.

Advice to students who are studying Political Science, International Affairs, or Public Administration at JMU
1. If you are interested in the federal government, seek out an internship that provides a security clearance. It is becoming increasingly harder to break into the government, and it is nearly impossible to do so without being already cleared.
2. Be patient! Your career is a journey and it is unlikely that you will land your dream job as your first job. You may learn along the way that the career or position you put on a pedestal no longer aligns with where you want to go.
3. Use your network. We are incredibly lucky to be part of a community like JMU where so many alumni are willing to mentor. Arrange calls, coffee date, and ask for resume reviews. Not only will this provide you with feedback, but it can also lead to you landing a job!