From D.C. to the Forty Acres: An LBJ Student’s Global Policy Journey

For first-year Master of Global Policy Studies student Isabelle Iguchi (MGPS ’27), public service isn’t just a career path, it’s a calling. After six years in Washington, D.C., working in diplomacy, international development, and national security, she came to the LBJ School of Public Affairs ready to build on that experience with a master's degree. 

“I had a hunch that UT Austin and the LBJ School would be the right fit for my graduate school experience. After six years in D.C. I was eager to get outside of “the bubble,” find a program focused on practical skills, and with inspiring faculty.” 

Originally from Brookline, Massachusetts, Iguchi earned her undergraduate degree in International Studies from American University’s School of International Service, focusing on global governance and the Europe/Eurasia region. Her studies sparked a deeper interest in international affairs, which led her to an internship with USAID’s Europe and Eurasia Bureau, where she supported the Ukraine Desk just months after Russia’s re-invasion. 

After graduating, she joined the bureau full-time as Special Assistant to the Assistant Administrator. In that role, she coordinated travel, events, and communications, working closely with U.S. agencies, foreign governments, and the private sector. Traveling to the region and meeting program participants gave her a firsthand understanding of the impact her work could have.  

“A lesson I learned in D.C. was the importance of being well-rounded and building a balanced life. UT Austin stood out to me as a place I could do so – dive deep into my studies at the LBJ school and find community through sports and other activities in Austin.” 

Now back in school and just a few months into her first semester, Iguchi is already taking advantage of everything LBJ has to offer. She says Professor Paul Pope’s Writing, Thinking, and Briefing course has been especially helpful in sharpening the communication skills she built at USAID. She’s also attended events hosted by the Clements and Strauss Centers, exploring topics ranging from Russia to democratic backsliding. 

After she earns her LBJ degree, Iguchi hopes to work in a role that blends strategy and public service, whether in the Foreign Service, national security or the private sector.  

“I would love to join an impactful, service-minded environment in a dynamic, strategy-oriented role. What that looks like exactly, I haven’t quite figured out yet." 

As she continues her studies, Iguchi is building on her experiences and preparing to change the world wherever her career may take her.