Name: Chelsea
Pronoun(s): she / her
Nationality: American (United States)
Hometown: Baltimore
Current location: Brazil
Occupation: Diplomat
I’m a world explorer, multilingual educator, content creator and U.S. diplomat from Baltimore. As a semi-nomad, who has lived in six countries and counting, I never thought I would have the opportunity to represent my country overseas. My heart’s desire is to share what I’ve learned, and mentor underrepresented groups to let them know the world is theirs.
On Education
Did you attend college? If so, where, and how did you choose that school/those schools?
I attended Juniata College in Huntingdon, PA. I chose my alma mater because it was warm and inviting. I liked the study abroad options and the fact that I wasn’t just a number. I’m glad I went to Juniata because it changed my life forever!
Did you participate in study abroad while at school? For how long, and with what program?
I did! I studied in Chennai, India for a semester. While I was in Chennai, I studied in the master’s level program for social work. Studying in India was one of the best moments of my life. I learned about Indian culture and traveled to many different cities.
Professional Background
How might your career path have differed if you’d stayed in your home country?
Originally, I planned to be a social worker. If I stayed in my home country, I would not have experienced all the world has to offer. Because I have lived in different countries, I am a person who is more open, flexible, and patient. I am also stronger as a result.
Psst, it looks like there’s something in the water formerly-aspiring social workers drink – our last feature spotlighted Jess, who moved abroad for a three month internship to work with refugees – and ended up staying! Read her story here.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy being able to represent my country. It is not a position I take lightly. Sometimes, I am the first American many people meet. I challenge what their idea of the U.S. is.
Is it necessary to have a master’s degree in your field? PhD?
In international affairs it depends on the job. For the field, a degree always helps; but you want to get as much experience as you can.
On Lifestyle
Do you think that everyone should study abroad? What are the benefits?
Yes! It changed my life forever. Your world view is challenged. You become a better communicator. You also become more flexible, patient, confident, etc. It also looks great on your resume.
Would you ever relocate to live outside of the US indefinitely? Where?
My homebase is always the United States. However, I think it would be cool to have a vacation home somewhere.
Do you speak a second language? More than one other language?
Besides English, Portuguese and Spanish.
Do you prefer fast or slow travel? Why?
I prefer slow travel. I love to take everything in.
One last question
What advice would you give to someone who knows they want to travel but aren’t sure where that fits in with the rest of their lives?
Start small. You don’t have to jetset across the world on your first trip. You can plan a trip 30 minutes to an hour from home and build up from there.
***
Editor’s note: This interview has been lightly edited.
If you connected with Chelsea’s feature and are interested in learning more about what it’s like to work abroad as a diplomat (aka a foreign service officer) and represent the United States or are working up the courage to get out there and travel, she invites you to connect on the following platforms:
@heymstraveler on Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn
A new edition of 52 Weeks of Fearless: A Friday Feature Series is (sometimes) posted every Friday evening, France time (CET). If you enjoy reading and want to keep up-to-date with the latest posts, please subscribe and follow @themillennialabroad to support and be the first to receive weekly blog posts and a monthly newsletter with a collection of resources curated to foster a global mindset – you may even seen an essay by yours truly slipped in there now and then!
