The Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship is designed to draw the best and brightest students from all backgrounds, who want to pursue a career in the State Department's Foreign Service Office. In addition to receiving up to $40,000 per year for two years, Pickering Fellows are offered the opportunity to receive mentoring and professional development as they prepare for Foreign Service. 

Photo provided by Lauren Truong, 2019

Lauren Truong graduated from U-M in 2013 with an Asian Studies BA. After graduation she was a researcher in the UM Health System and then a Peace Corps volunteer in Armenia. "My parents are Vietnamese refugees, and, growing up, I never knew that diplomacy was a professional option for people like myself. So, it’s a huge honor to receive this fellowship. As a first-generation college graduate, I would especially like to thank my professors in the Department of Asian Languages and Culture for supporting me throughout my academic career. As a Pickering fellow, I plan to obtain a graduate degree in public policy or international affairs and join the Foreign Service as a consular affairs officer. I look forward to gaining hands-on experience with the development and implementation of U.S. foreign policy and representing the diversity of the United States abroad." -Lauren Truong, 2019

Photo provided by Nathaniel Maekawa, 2019

Nathaniel Maekawa graduated from U-M in 2018 with an International Studies BA and a Minor in Medical Anthropology. He was also a Graham Institute Sustainability Scholar. Nathaniel is currently in Mongolia with the Peace Corps and plans to pursue a Master’s degree in International Policy and Affairs.

“My identity and experiences, especially with the Peace Corps, have drawn me to a career and life in public service and global affairs. The Pickering Fellowship offers a chance to realize my goals by providing opportunities, mentorship, and much needed financial support. I’m very excited to join the Pickering community [and] with this degree I hope to learn how to transform my experiences and perspective into positive action. As a foreign service officer I aspire to represent the diversity of the United States while promoting sustainable development through diplomacy.” -Nathaniel Maekawa, 2019

To learn more about the Pickering Fellowship, visit ONSF's Fellowships page or the Pickering Fellowship website to learn more about the Pickering Fellowship and this unique opportunity with the State Department. Students interested in pursuing the Peace Corps should visit the International Center's Peace Corps Office to learn more about this opportunity or to explore U-M's unique Peace Corps Prep Program