Cecil College Student Elissa Ertwine Participates in Prestigious National Security Seminar

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NORTH EAST, MDCecil College student Elissa Ertwine had a unique opportunity this May. She was one of over 140 learners from across the country to attend The Washington Center’s (TWC) annual National Security Academic Seminar. This event allowed students to experience the national security community up close and explore their futures in this vital field.

The week-long program immersed students in discussions with distinguished professionals from various sectors. Keynote speakers included Bilva Chandra, a Senior AI Policy Advisor at the National Institute of Standards and Technology; Dr. Mara Karlin, former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategies, Plans, and Capabilities at the U.S. Department of Defense; and Juan Zarate, Global Co-Managing Partner and Chief Strategy Officer at K2 Integrity and former Deputy Assistant to the President and Deputy National Security Adviser for Combating Terrorism.

In addition to these insightful talks, Ertwine and her peers visited several key organizations and institutions in Washington, D.C. These visits included the Department of Defense, Deloitte, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the American Enterprise Institute, and The British Embassy. Each location provided a different perspective on national security and its various challenges.

The seminar also gave students a chance to delve into pressing issues in both national and domestic security policy. They explored topics ranging from cybersecurity to international relations, gaining a comprehensive view of the field.

For Ertwine, the seminar was more than just an educational opportunity. It was a chance to deepen her understanding of potential career paths in national security. Participants had ample networking opportunities with professionals who work on security challenges daily. These interactions can prove invaluable as students like Ertwine plan their careers.

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Cecil College expressed pride in Ertwine’s participation in the seminar. Her involvement showcases the college’s commitment to providing students with opportunities that enhance their educational and professional development.

Empowering Tomorrow’s National Security Leaders through Expert Engagement

This experience marks a significant step for Ertwine and her peers. By engaging directly with experts and institutions in Washington, they gained insights that are rarely accessible to students. The knowledge and connections they made will undoubtedly influence their future careers in national security.

The Washington Center’s seminar highlights the importance of preparing the next generation of national security professionals. As global and domestic threats evolve, having well-informed and well-connected individuals ready to tackle these challenges is crucial. The program not only educates but also inspires students to contribute meaningfully to the field of national security.

Ertwine’s participation represents a promising beginning for what could be a significant career in national security. Her experience at the seminar has equipped her with the tools and insights needed to navigate this complex and essential field.

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