Astrid Viktorsson, an alumn of the Center for Statecraft and Strategic Communication’s Applied History course, reflects on how the Spring 2022 course marked the beginning of an unexpected academic journey. "It was my first university-level history course, and it completely shifted my perspective on how the past shapes the present," she recalls. "The course not only deepened my understanding of key historical events but also introduced me to an incredible network of inspired peers and mentors who helped shape my future studies."

During the course, Astrid received an email from Carl Ritter, one of the center’s senior research fellows and her course instructors, about the Kissinger Summer Academy in Washington, D.C. Seizing the opportunity, she applied and was accepted, spending the summer immersed in discussions on nuclear weapons and American grand strategy. "That experience made me realize that I wanted to pursue my master’s in international relations and geopolitics," she says. In 2023, she began her master's studies at Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), with her first year in Bologna, Italy, and the second year in Washington, D.C.

Reflecting on her path, Astrid emphasizes the importance of the Applied History course in shaping her academic career. "Applied History provided me with an invaluable network, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without it," she says. As she embarks on her master’s, she is eager to explore topics like sustainability and development in international relations, and to continue building connections with her diverse cohort of classmates from around the world.

For those considering the Applied History course, Astrid is enthusiastic in her recommendation. "I’ve never met anyone who regretted taking it. The seminars, which were discussion-based, prepared me for the kind of learning I’m doing now—and I made some of my closest friends during the course."