2020 marks eighty years of diplomatic relations between Australia and the U.S. To commemorate this anniversary, TFAS Capital Semester students participated in a virtual conversation with two Australian diplomats, Rebecca Allen and Chelsea Porter.

I truly believe TFAS has played a great role in organizing virtual events that allow us to network and build strong connections.” – Danna Batarni ’20

In a webinar meeting with the Australian Embassy in D.C., students heard from the pair on the importance of teamwork and civil discussion when approaching issues relevant to U.S.-Australian relations. They also described the Australian Embassy’s purpose, their positions within the embassy and some of Australia’s political processes. Allen described the Australian people as an “intrepid bunch,” signifying their resolve to tackle tough conversations with an open mind, which is what diplomacy is all about.

TFAS students then had the chance to ask questions and learn more about the role diplomacy plays in our global society. A recent graduate of Spelman College, Darrielle Fair ’20 said she found the webinar both informative and insightful.

“I enjoyed hearing Bec and Chelsea speak about their day to day operations at the embassy and some of the cultural barriers they have had to overcome on a regular basis with the support of their team to ensure they are maintaining Australian-US relations,” Fair said.

California State Polytechnic University student Danna Batarni ’20 shared that virtual events like these have enriched her TFAS experience despite challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

“Even with COVID being active,” Batarni said, “I truly believe TFAS has played a great role in organizing virtual events that allow us to network and build strong connections.”

To learn more about the TFAS Fall Capital Semester class, visit TFAS.org/FallCS2020.