Gabriela Oliveira, MA International Development Studies, #WeAreElliott Current Student
Gabriela Oliveira is an M.A. candidate in the International Development Studies program at the Elliott School of International Affairs. Having worked for the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), she is experienced with the environment and economic development agenda in Latin American countries. She specifically worked for the improvement of the 2030 Agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals’ implementation and monitoring in Brazil. She has a degree in International Relations from the University of Brasília (Brazil) where she conducted research about the BRICS and the opportunities of the New Development Bank. Her interests are in Latin America, social entrepreneurship, and finance for development. Currently, she is part of a pro-bono consultancy team working for a non-profit in conceptualizing a development project focused on improving agricultural value chains, leveraging the private sector and creating jobs in Afghanistan.
Where do you currently work, intern or volunteer, and how does it fit in with your career goals?
I am currently part of a GW’s pro-bono consultancy team. We are working with a non-profit to develop a project proposal focused on creating jobs for the youth in Afghanistan. I am extremely motivated by this project because we can think creatively of an economic appealing and inclusive strategy capable of bringing to the table different actors such as the government, the private sector and non-profit. I believe that this experience has enhanced not only my research and analysis skills but also my capacity for developing viable recommendations that combine smart policies with investment opportunities in the developing world.
What strategies have proven most helpful in making the most of your time at the Elliott School?
I would cite two main strategies that I have been pursuing so far. First of all, I try to take advantage of the Elliott School’s community cultural richness and diversity. It is important to listen to your peers, learn their stories, their cultural differences, this will broaden your horizons and make you a more humane and impactful professional. Second, GW is a world in itself, so make connections, not only with people but with ideas of different fields of expertise. Challenge yourself to think beyond your focus area so you can understand the world as a whole.
What advice do you have for first-year students who are starting their internship/work experience search?
My advice would be twofold. First, see a positive lesson in everything you do. Sometimes we are required to do kind of boring tasks, but don’t be discouraged. Instead, take the opportunity to do your best because these tasks will handle you with important skills that will enable you to have more “impactful” jobs in the future. Second, if things go as not expected and you see that you are not achieving the expected results, take a moment to breathe and communicate with your supervisors. It is essential to know when to stop and restrategize.
What 3 items would you take to a desert island other than food or water?
I would take a recyclable straw to drink coconut water during my sunbaths. I would bring my speaker to put on some reggaeton and throw amazing parties on the island. Last but not least, I would bring Wilson because – what is the point of being stuck in a desert island if you can’t play Tom Hanks in Cast Away??
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The #WeAreElliott profile series is managed by the Elliott School Office of Graduate Admissions and highlights current students to answer common questions posed by prospective, incoming, and current students. For more information on this series or to submit questions, e-mail the Office of Graduate Admissions at esiagrad@gwu.edu.
The views expressed by students profiled do not necessarily represent those of organizations they work for, are affiliated with, or the Elliott School of International Affairs.
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