For Australia native Gemma King, currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Asian Studies (MASIA) at Georgetown University, a combination of academic study and practical experience has been key to shaping her career path. As she prepares to graduate this spring, King reflects on the experiences that led her to Washington, D.C., and how they are preparing her for the future.
A Lifelong Interest in the Region
King’s interest in Asia began in her youth, growing up in Australia near the region. Studying Indonesian in high school, she observed a complex relationship between Australia and Indonesia, sparking a desire to understand the political dynamics at play in international relations. This early interest solidified her academic focus on Asia throughout her undergraduate studies.
From Think Tank to Georgetown
After completing her bachelor’s degree, King worked at an Australian think tank, researching the U.S.-Australia alliance in the Indo-Pacific. This experience highlighted the significant influence of Washington, D.C., policymaking on the region, and fueled her interest in understanding those processes firsthand. She determined that Georgetown University’s MASIA program, with its location and access to leading experts, would be the ideal place to pursue this understanding.
Experiential Learning in Indonesia and Washington
King’s studies included a unique opportunity to take courses at Georgetown SFS Asia Pacific in Jakarta, Indonesia, during the summer of 2025. This experience, including a field visit to the world’s largest gold and copper mine in Papua, provided invaluable insights into Indonesia’s economy, environmental challenges, and governmental relationships. Complementing this, King pursued internships at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and Vriens & Partners, gaining exposure to the policy community in Washington, D.C.
A Tight-Knit Community and Expert Mentorship
King emphasized the importance of the close-knit community within the Asian Studies Program at Georgetown, providing support and camaraderie throughout her graduate studies. She also highlighted a special seminar with Kurt Campbell, SFS Distinguished Fellow in Diplomacy and former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, as a particularly impactful experience, offering a unique perspective on U.S. policymaking.
Looking Ahead
King’s academic work and internships have equipped her with a strong foundation for a career focused on Indo-Pacific policy. She is well-positioned to apply her theoretical knowledge and practical skills to real-world challenges. It is possible that she will continue to work in the policy space, potentially focusing on the U.S.-Australia alliance or broader regional dynamics. Further opportunities for research and analysis could also be on the horizon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked Gemma King’s initial interest in Asia?
Growing up in Australia, in close proximity to Asia, and studying Indonesian in high school, where she observed a complex relationship between Australia and Indonesia, sparked her initial interest in the region.
Where did Gemma King complete her internships?
Gemma King completed internships at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and at Vriens & Partners, a government affairs consulting firm.
What was a key takeaway from her experience at Georgetown SFS Asia Pacific in Jakarta?
King gained a fresh perspective on Indonesia and Asia more broadly, improved her language skills, and learned about the importance of the mining sector to the Indonesian economy, the environmental impacts of mining, and the relationship between an American mining company and the Indonesian government.
How might increased experiential learning opportunities shape the next generation of leaders in international affairs?
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