What's Next? Chats with American Studies Alumni

In this special episode, Sandra Rath speaks with Emily Y. Norris, Consul at the U.S. Consulate General in Leipzig. They first talk about Consul Norris' professional path, her favorite class at Princeton and her most memorable moments from her posts as a Foreign Service Officer around the world. Consul Norris also shares what she thinks are important skills for those thinking about joining the foreign service of any country. In a second part, Sandra and Consul Norris speak about the transatlantic relationship, where it's at, how choosing American Studies can sustain and grow it, and where it's headed in the future. Consul Norris also talked about the value of studying abroad and recommended resources to those thinking about studying in the U.S. Enjoy this episode!

Sidenote: Please excuse the connection issue at one point in the episode! 

The episode was recorded on April 26, 2021.

Resources from Mission Germany:

In this episode, Sandra Rath chats with Dr. Marie-Luise Löffler, Officer for Women's and Gender Equality at the City of Heidelberg's Equal Opportunities Office. In a first part, Dr. Löffler tells us about her journey to her PhD, her research fellowships at UC Berkeley and Stanford University, why she decided to switch from academia to public service and what her current position entails. In a second part, Sandra and Dr. Löffler talk about her advice for those wanting to pursue a PhD, what to think about when applying for funding of any kind, and what she thinks are important leadership and negotiation skills. Enjoy this episode!

Get in touch and ask questions to our next guests here:

In this episode, Sandra Rath chats with Maša Ocvirk, Representative to the COSAC Secreteriat for Slovenia at the European Union in Brussels. Maša speaks about her studies, the importance of internships and side jobs early on, her experience as a Legislative Intern at the U.S. House of Representatives, and how she got into her current role. In a second part, Maša and Sandra talk about the importance of balancing work and free time, her advice for students and graduates wanting to work in government affairs, and where she sees herself in five or tens years. Enjoy this episode!

Get in touch and ask questions to our next guests here:

In this episode, Sandra Rath chats with Anika Kreller, Information and Public Affairs Specialist at the U.S. Consulate General Leipzig. During the conversation, Anika speaks about her ambitions to become a journalist and foreign correspondent during her studies and why she later decided to switch careers into communications. Later on in the episode, Anika shares her advice on how to deal with questions about your weaknesses and what skills she thinks are necessary to succeed in the field of international communications. Enjoy!

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Things mentioned in the interview:

In this first episode, Sandra Rath chats with Katharina-Luise Kittler, Head of Communications and Government Relations at AmCham Germany. Katharina speaks about wanting to be a journalist from a young age and making sure this goal would become a reality during her studies. After chatting about her years as a freelance journalist and political advisor, Katharina then goes on to talk about her current position and responsibilities. In a second part, Sandra and Katharina chat about feeling insecure in the professional sphere and what to do about it, how to get organized, as well as Katharina's advice on applications and job interviews. We hope you enjoy this episode!

Get in Touch:

Welcome! We can't wait to share our first episode soon! Until then, check out our social media platforms to stay in touch and ask questions that our guests might just answer!