Rich in History

You have deep experience in foreign policy and foreign affairs, more than 20 years worth of experience, some of that time was spent in the private sector. What made you want to go into the public sector?

I think it's because I grew up in a in a small New England town that had a very, very rich sense of history. It's one of these towns where you go around and you see the old colonial buildings and they have the sign, George Washington slept here. And you sort of felt like a sense of history and a sense of how special this country is. And it really inspired a sense of wanting to give back.

So then what are your top three pieces of advice for people who want to pursue a public sector job or a leadership position serving our nation?

I think first I would say just do not hesitate to jump in with both feet and do it, because it is so important, particularly in this moment where the world is changing as quickly as it is that we get the best and the brightest serving our country. Second, I would say if you're going to do it and go in as a career person, try to stick it out, do it for at least five years so you get a real feel for what it's like and have a chance to see different parts of the government. Third, I would say read, read newspapers all day, every day, newspapers that represent different points of view and also try to set aside a time every day for reading a book of any kind. Just continue to read. I think reading is a is a critical thing to helping your thought process as you're working your way through these kinds of commitments.