Meet Our Fellow: Andrew Bleiman
Why did you apply for/join the Fellows program?
Much of my career has been leading U.S. businesses for international parent companies and supporting international conservation NGOs. Personally and professionally, I’ve long been drawn to global affairs. After a year living and working in Finland, I wanted to stay connected to international issues, especially in security and diplomacy. The Fellows program offered the perfect opportunity to continue that engagement and deepen my understanding.
What did you gain from the experience?
The Fellows program felt like an intensive seminar on the most pressing international issues of our time. Each session offered a deep, unfiltered look at global dynamics, guided by experts who are not just observers, but active participants. It sharpened my understanding of complex geopolitical landscapes and gave me access to insights that aren’t easily found in traditional educational or professional settings.
What was your favorite aspect of the program or speaker that you heard from and why?
What truly set the program apart was the caliber of its speakers. These weren’t just academics discussing theory—they were practitioners on the front lines of international affairs. From diplomats to military leaders to NGO executives, they brought firsthand, real-time perspectives that made each discussion uniquely valuable. Hearing directly from those shaping events, rather than analyzing them after the fact, is both rare and full of insights not otherwise available.
What would you say to incoming applicants about the program? Would you encourage people in your field or organization to apply?
Absolutely. The small cohort size and interactive format fostered genuine dialogue—you’re not just sitting through lectures, you're engaging in meaningful conversations. For anyone in international business, the program offers a deeper appreciation for how global events unfold, how decisions are made across sectors, and how different institutions—governmental, military, and nonprofit—interact on the world stage. It’s incredibly relevant, even if your day-to-day isn’t directly in foreign policy.