An Alumna’s Journey from BU to International Service and the FBI
Natali (MA IR and Communications ’99), now a member of the FBI in Boston, reflects on how her time at Boston University (prior to the creation of the Pardee School of Global Studies) and her career since have taken her across the globe – from Paris to the Middle East – shaping a path in international affairs, government service, and cross-cultural engagement.
What classes/professors made the most impact on your professional journey?
So many professors at Bay State Road made an impact on me during my time in the IR department, but I would say the most influential were Richard Norton, Professor Emeritus of International Relations and Anthropology; David Fromkin, founding director of the Frederick S. Pardee Center for the Study of the Longer-Range Future; Irene Gendzier, Professor Emerita of Political Science; and Igor Lukes, Professor of History and International Relations. They all further nourished the love of international affairs and diplomacy in me and shaped my career track which led me to overseas travel and international studies, culminating to my current position in government.
Since graduating, what has your professional development looked like?
The summer before I graduated from BU, I completed an internship with the U.S. Department of State in Paris. I worked in consular affairs and used my French language skills to further the U.S. Government’s relationships with the Foreign Service National staff as well as the Department of State community in Paris. It was such an eye-opening experience.
Once I finished my studies at BU, I accepted a Middle East Research Analyst position with the U.S. Department of Defense. I had the opportunity to deploy overseas to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and provide intelligence briefs to commanders and generals prior to their overseas deployments. On the heels of 9/11, analysts with my background, language skills, and expertise suddenly were in high demand. I had my pick of which government agency I wanted to work for. I knew I eventually wanted to move back closer to home, so I decided to accept an Intelligence Analyst position with the FBI. I started working at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and a few years later, transferred to their office in Boston, where I currently work.
Where has been your favorite place to travel for work?
I have been very privileged to travel for work throughout my career with the Department of State, later with the Department of Defense and then with the FBI. I have traveled across North America, Northern Caribbean Sea, Europe, and the Middle East. Each trip was memorable and meaningful in its own way so I can’t pick my favorite, but I must admit my trip to Muscat, Oman, was especially memorable as it happened right before everything shut down due to the Covid-19 Pandemic.
How has knowing four different languages deepened your connection to global communities?
I can’t emphasize enough what it means to be multicultural/multilingual. It’s an avenue into someone else’s culture, language, and traditions and exposes you to new ways of thinking and processing information. It makes you realize how you are connected to the world and that no matter what language we speak, or where we live, we are all part of this human experience.
What has been the most rewarding part of your post-grad development and experience?
The most rewarding part of my post-grad development has been the people I have met. I have had the opportunity to meet and interact with dignitaries, officials, and even royalty, across the U.S. Government and our international partners. The people I have crossed paths with and learned from is ultimately what has made my career path so enriching.
What advice would you give to Pardee students who are studying international relations during a time of global change?
Don’t be afraid to tackle new adventures and don’t say no when opportunity knocks. It may be a position in a state or country you don’t want to live in where you have no friends or family. Seize those opportunities because it will be such an amazing learning experience. And who knows where it will lead you next.
It’s also very important to take on internships and work on developing your connections during your college/graduate school years. Reach out to people in industries you are interested in. People love to talk about their careers, and BU alumni are always willing to help the next generation!
If I could make a personal plug here, if students are interested in a career in the FBI, check out fbijobs.gov.
Are you a Pardee student looking to connect with alumni? Check out BU Connects!