Name

Catherine Mangum

School

University of Washington

Degree Program

Second year Masters student in International Studies

Previous Degrees

Bachelors of Arts in Global Studies with a concentration in Eastern Europe from Sonoma State University, 2007

Thesis Title

Centrally Planned Innovation: Russia’s Answer to the Silicon Valley

Advisor

Not yet chosen

Graduate School – Application Process

How did you select your graduate school and program?

Selecting the masters degree program in international studies at University of Washington was easy for me. When I finished my undergraduate degree in 2007, I researched masters programs in international studies, and this was the only program that appealed to me. After I decided to apply to University of Washington, I discovered that my cousin was already enrolled in the same masters degree program. Her positive experience cemented my opinion that this was the program for me, and I decided not to apply to any other schools.

What did you do to prepare yourself for graduate school?

The most important thing I did to prepare myself for graduate school was take time to live abroad. I first studied abroad in Switzerland during my junior year of high school, and then I moved to Russia after completing my undergraduate degree. I worked in Russia for a year to have the experience of living in that country. I believe my time in Russia not only enriched me personally, it also enhanced my application to graduate school.

What kind of information did you include in your personal statement?

In my personal statement, I explained why I wanted to work with specific professors and I described how working with them would help me reach my goals.

Do you have any other tips for a student who is considering applying to graduate school in international studies?

The best advice that I can offer someone who is thinking of applying to graduate school in international studies is to live outside the of United States for a period of time. It is crucial for someone interested in international studies to experience other people and other cultures. The best way to get this experience is to live abroad, preferably in a place that piques your interest in some way.

Graduate School – The Program

How long is your program and how is the curriculum distributed?

My masters degree program in international studies takes 2 years to complete. The curriculum is very flexible with only a few requirements. For most of the coursework, I have been able to tailor the classes to fit my own research areas, with the exception of a few compulsory classes. The curriculum is not divided between attending classes and working on my thesis. Instead, I take classes while also writing my thesis.

What is the focus of your masters research?

The working title of my thesis is “Centrally Planned Innovation: Russia’s Answer to the Silicon Valley.” For my thesis, I am interested in the increasing presence of technology innovation in Russia, particularly the city of Skolkovo. My thesis will focus on the increasing use of technology and its sustainability from an international business perspective.

I chose this topic because I am interested in working in the high-tech field and I want to work with a company that is investing in the Skolkovo project.

Can you describe the process of researching for and writing your thesis?

In my research for my masters thesis, I have focused on reading books and academic articles. I am reading about high-tech clusters and have also studied the history of technological development in Russia. In addition, I regularly read journal articles to stay current on which companies are investing in Russian technology.

Does your program have an internship component?

My curriculum is very flexible and does not require any internships, but there are still opportunities for students who wish to participate in internships. I recently interned for the Foundation for Russian American Economic Cooperation based in Seattle. It was a nonprofit organization that acted as a liaison between Russian businesses and American businesses. For my internship, I performed research involving technology and the government.

What role does your advisor play in your education?

I have not chosen an advisor yet, but I intend to pick an advisor whose expertise complements my research.

How does a masters program differ from undergraduate study?

In my experience, the biggest difference between my masters program and undergraduate study is the approach to learning. Undergraduate courses seem to focus students on attending lectures and then regurgitating the facts from the lectures. In my masters program, I work more independently and actually analyze information rather than simply memorize it.

Graduate School – Paying for It

How much does your masters program cost?

My masters degree program costs between $10,000 and $15,000 for tuition and instructional fees each year.

How are you funding your education?

I pay for my education through grants, loans and a part-time job.

Graduate School – Living Life

What are the time commitments for a masters in international studies?

Most weeks, my time is filled with school obligations and research and little else. I spend around 40 hours each week attending class and doing research and homework, though I also participate in various committees and community groups.

Graduate School – After Graduation

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

“Ideally, I would like to work for a high-tech company that does work in Russia. There are many companies that work to introduce technology into developing countries where technology is relatively new. I would love to work for a company that is investing in the Skolkovo project.