A native of Los Angeles, California, I received my Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service from Georgetown University's Walsh School of Foreign Service in Washington, DC, where I majored in International Politics (with a concentration in Security Studies) and a minor in European studies (receiving my proficiency in the French language). Studying abroad at Trinity College, Dublin, working as an intern at the French embassy, and pursuing various research projects (including as an undergraduate research scholar for the Transatlantic Policy Symposium in D.C.), I have focused on how European states and the institution of the EU as a whole have dealt with perceptions of the Russian threat in the post-Soviet era. In addition to my academic studies, I am also an indie recording singer and songwriter with three EPs out on all streaming platforms as well as an actress (I just debuted my first ever one-woman show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this past summer!). Lastly, my debut collection of creative writings with the Beverly Hills-based Cool Titles publishing company is currently in its pre-publication phase.