Emma Frazier

What originally sparked your interest in national security?

I am pursuing my MA in International Affairs, with a concentration in International Security. My interest in national security really developed from a combination of academic curiosity and personal exposure to international environments growing up. I became especially interested in how geopolitical competition, economic policy, and security strategy intersect. As I studied topics like China’s military development and U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, I realized how much policy decisions shape global stability and economic relationships, which ultimately pushed me toward focusing on international security.

As you look toward the next few years, what areas of national security are you most interested in exploring or contributing to? 

I’m particularly interested in the intersection of geopolitical competition, economic security, and emerging technologies. Issues like strategic competition between major powers, technological influence, and the role of financial systems in global security dynamics are becoming increasingly important. I’m especially interested in how governments and institutions manage risk in these areas and how policy decisions influence both security outcomes and global markets.

What kinds of skills or experiences are you hoping to gain next as you continue shaping your path in this field? 

I’m hoping to continue developing strong analytical and writing skills, particularly the ability to translate complex policy developments into clear insights for decision-makers. I’m also interested in gaining more experience working in fast-paced environments where policy, business, and communications intersect. Understanding how organizations navigate political risk and communicate effectively during moments of uncertainty is something I’d like to continue building experience in. 

What has been your favorite aspect of being an INSA Policy Intern?  

My favorite aspect has been the opportunity to engage with conversations involving senior leaders across the national security community. Being able to support discussions on complex policy issues while also helping prepare briefing materials and summaries has been a really valuable learning experience. It’s given me insight into how policy discussions translate into real-world decision-making. 

What has been your favorite graduate course? 

One of my favorite courses has been U.S. Foreign Policy in the Middle East, taught by retired Ambassador Gordon Gray, who served as U.S. Ambassador to Tunisia during the early stages of the Arab Spring. The class examined how U.S. strategy in the region has evolved over time, particularly as regional dynamics have shifted with changing alliances, economic reforms, and geopolitical competition. Ambassador Gray often shared firsthand perspectives from his diplomatic experience, which added a practical dimension to the discussions and connected to themes that came up in other courses I’ve taken. What I found most interesting was exploring how policymakers balance security interests, economic partnerships, and regional stability in a very complex environment, and how those decisions shape broader international security dynamics. 

Do you have a favorite travel story from a place you’ve lived, studied, or visited? 

One experience that really stuck with me was participating in a short-term study program in China. Our school days started early — we were doing tai chi at around 7 a.m. before classes even began. As someone who grew up very involved in sports, I quickly realized I was surprisingly terrible at that kind of slow, controlled exercise. It was a humbling but funny reminder to expect the unexpected when you’re in a new environment. What I enjoyed most, though, was spending time both with the other American students and with the Chinese students at the school. It was interesting how quickly you realize that people are much more similar than different once you start interacting day-to-day. After classes we would often go to the arcade in the local mall nearby, and it was also fun realizing that I could get around fairly well even with my very imperfect Chinese. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years, I hope to be working in a role where I’m helping organizations navigate complex geopolitical and policy environments. Ideally, I’d like to be in a position where I’m conducting research, analyzing developments, and helping translate those insights into actionable guidance for decision-makers operating in fast-moving global environments.