I have a number of academic and professional interests, which I believe could be enhanced with a thorough knowledge and grasp of technical writing skills. My major at the University of British Columbia is History and I specialize in Iranian political history and strategic communications. I am accustomed to writing academic, history or political science-related, papers which, for example, aim to create a linear explanation of historical cause and contemporary effect. While this type of writing often relies on peer-reviewed information and is highly analytical, the composition of these pieces can be ponderous or unable to relay facts in a succinct manner. This provides an example of why I would like to work on my business and professional writing abilities. Academic writing, outside of certain institutions and industries, does not offer the concise and relevant prose needed for the differing expectations of the business world.

My professional interests are as follows. Much of my academic work is aimed at defense or security-focused think tanks and government bodies. Therefore, I wish to build both the analytical and the communication skills to provide governmental and commercial stakeholders with timely and appropriate information without being bogged down by details. I have had the privilege to intern at the Embassy of Canada in Washington D.C. and elsewhere. Through these experiences, I have discovered that key pieces of information must be conveyed in a way that is both accessible and relevant to the parties concerned. Whether it is employing Twitter to reach the public or collaborating with foreign representatives directly, communication is crucial in traditional and non-traditional diplomacy and government relations with business. I have some experience in this area but I hope, by applying myself here, to develop my communication skills further so that I am able to serve my future employers to the best of my ability.