Rebecca Lloyd
Reading theory and case studies as I was living what I was reading while working for NATO and ISAF in Afghanistan was an amazing experience and kept me motivated on late night papers or group projects!
Q: “Tell us a bit about yourself, Rebecca.”
A: "I am an Army veteran with over 10 years of active service who comes from a family of veterans and service, from my father and grandfather to my little sister who is in the Navy. I am an animal lover and advocate of dog rescue organizations. I run full and half marathons with a lovely collection of friends I have met all over the world who also love racing. I come from a close knit family who has always supported me and hope to one day soon start a family of my own to pass on the traditions and legacy of service to our country."
Q: “Briefly describe your professional life.”
A: "I am currently a Research Director with Aimpoint Research based out of Columbus, OH. Aimpoint is a global market research firm that provides the insight leaders and organizations need to make better, more-informed decisions that reduce risk, optimize resource allocation and maximize success. I am responsible for developing and coordinating market research projects with a variety of customers ranging from agriculture to public policy."
Q: “What was your motivation for pursuing your degree?”
A: "I decided to pursue my Master's in Art of Diplomacy after serving in the military and working with peers, military and political leaders on gender integration issues in Afghanistan. As a woman in the military, I empathized with the women of Afghanistan in their struggle for equal rights and access to the same opportunities as their male counterparts. I was skeptical of an online program, fearful of going back to school after a 10-year break after undergrad. I searched for a program that would support my lifetime goal of starting my own women rights non-profit; that is when I discovered Norwich’s diplomacy program and thought it was the perfect fit. Reading theory and case studies as I was living what I was reading while working for NATO and ISAF in Afghanistan was an amazing experience and kept me motivated on late night papers or group projects!"
Q: “How have you grown personally or professionally as a result of your education?”
A: "From learning about what I was experiencing first hand in Afghanistan to meeting young professionals with similar ideas and goals, the diplomacy program helped to keep me motivated about the possibilities post grad school!"
Q: “Please tell us about any examples where you were able to put your knowledge to work immediately at your job.”
A: "I help build a gender integration strategy for ISAF while in Afghanistan immediately learning the ins and outs of UNSDCR 1325 women in security and how to apply a feminist perspective on security, stability and reconstruction operations. My position allowed me to influence strategic level policy, my knowledge and background from school helped me make my input that much more meaningful."
