Get to know Kate Bourlakas
Kate Bourlakas is from Nashville, Tennessee and graduated in 2025 with an English BA and minors in Political Science and Spanish. She’s currently an intern in New York City at the United Nations Headquarters. Kate received the English department’s College Prize and is especially proud of her performances at BU’s Trivia Nights for English Majors at the Trident Bookstore.
Tell us about your internship.
I’m currently interning in New York City at the United Nations Headquarters, where I get an up-close look at the projects, workshops, and policy briefs that promote effective, accountable and inclusive governance and public institutions. Basically, my division helps countries around the world implement their Sustainable Development Goals and better serve the people they govern.
How do you think the English Major has helped you?
My internship may seem a far cry from my training as an English major, but I’ve been well prepared to comprehend and synthesize long readings, and my supervisor has consistently praised me for my writing ability. What most helps me in my work, however, is my understanding of people afforded to me by a humanities degree. I think I have a good sense for the social narratives that make our world, the intrinsic wants and needs of human beings, and the importance of creative outlets. Rather than shying away from my English degree, or allowing impostor syndrome to take root, I’ve leaned into my humanities background, a choice that has been transformative. I’m lucky to be surrounded by a team that listens to and appreciates my perspective.
Any thoughts on the English major at BU now that you’ve graduated?
When I reflect on the English major, I think more than anything it instills an understanding of the power of words, a gift that can be translated into any career. I’ve also realized the necessity of integrating the humanities into “unrelated” sectors, as there is a need for creativity and human understanding in all areas of work. My internship has shown me an incredible way to make a difference in the world, and, above all, it has taught me the importance of trusting my own voice and ideas.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I had a really meaningful experience at the beginning of my internship. I gave a presentation that connected to themes from a Border Studies class on the importance of art, performance, and poetry in advancing social change. In return, I was offered the opportunity to write a poem—a Collective Poetic Vision Statement—for a Regional Forum on Governance Innovation. It was while writing and delivering this poem that I felt most aligned with my intrinsic purpose. I have always been oriented toward humanitarian work, and knew I wanted to pursue a career in public service, but through this poem, I realized I wanted to be someone who inspires people.