Pickering Fellow Michaiah Augustine Brings Diplomatic Experience to Pardee School
This fall, the Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University welcomed Thomas R. Pickering Graduate Fellowship recipient Michaiah Augustine to its Master of Arts in International Affairs (MAIA) program, where she combines her diplomatic experience with a passion for international justice.
“The professors at Pardee really drew me in,” Augustine says. “I liked their fast-paced, lecture style when I sat in on classes.” She was particularly impressed by Pardee’s comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to international affairs, which extends beyond her undergraduate foundation.
Augustine chose Pardee for its rich diplomatic network and opportunities. The school’s faculty includes former diplomats and ambassadors, providing invaluable real-world insights. Students benefit from immersive experiences like the school’s five-day Washington, DC trip, where they engage with policymakers, connect with alumni working in international organizations, and visit institutions including Refugee International, the IMF, the Pentagon, and the World Bank. “Being a Pickering partner was also a big pull for me,” she adds, reflecting her commitment to joining the U.S. Foreign Service.
While her undergraduate work centered on Europe and Eurasia, Augustine has expanded her focus at Pardee, particularly toward the Middle East. She values learning from experienced faculty who bring diverse global perspectives, particularly expertise in the Global South, and engaging with courses that broaden her global understanding.
Public speaking stands as a key priority in Augustine’s academic development. “Public speaking is my number one priority,” she explains. “I’ve always wanted to take a public speaking class, but it never worked with my schedule during undergrad.” She views this skill as essential for her future diplomatic career.
Augustine’s path to international affairs began at Brooklyn Technical High School, where she majored in law and society. Initially planning to become a district attorney, her trajectory shifted after winning a scholarship to study in France. This pivotal experience sparked her passion for international relations and diplomacy. She went on to complete her undergraduate degree at Bucknell University, focusing on international relations with a concentration on Europe and Eurasia.
“I love law, but I realized diplomacy could allow me to travel and see more of the world while still engaging with policy and negotiation,” Augustine reflects on her career choice.
At the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas, Augustine gained valuable diplomatic experience through her internship. She remains passionate about addressing human trafficking, a focus she continues at Pardee. “Creating and enforcing stricter laws against human trafficking is a major passion of mine,” Augustine states. “Even a small change in legislation can create a significant impact.”
At Pardee, Augustine has found her academic home. “I’m very happy to be in this environment,” she says. “History, politics, law – these are the subjects I’ve always wanted to study.”
As a Pickering Fellow at the Pardee School, Augustine combines her diplomatic experience with academic rigor, positioning herself to make significant contributions to international diplomacy and global policy in the years ahead.