Ava Smith

Posse Scholar | Boston University Student Studying International Relations | Research Assistant

Greater Boston

About

Experience

  • Research Assistant at Boston University - Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies (Pardee School)
    Feb 2026 - Present · 5 mos

    - Analyze defense and intelligence agreements between Persian Gulf countries and Western countries in order to organize and synthesize data about potential correlations with Visa Waiver Program agreements - Report relevant insights to research leads in order to further team research goals and refine analytical methodology

  • Government Affairs Intern at O'Neill and Associates
    Sep 2025 - Dec 2025 · 4 mos

    Developed a complete business development proposal for a potential client valued at $4.4 billion by researching relevant legislation and stakeholder groups in order to present a finalized strategy to senior staff who followed up with the client Tracked legislation and hearings to provide written reports with detailed information and implications for clients Performed industry research in order to find opportunities for business to business marketing, grant opportunities, and government to business opportunities

  • Arabic Language & Culture Intensive Participant at CET Academic Programs
    Jan 2025 - May 2025 · 5 mos

    - Achieved a high level of Arabic language and cultural proficiency by completing an intensive academic program - Adapted to a fast-paced, challenging, and unfamiliar environment, demonstrating flexibility, and cultural sensitivity - Engaged in cultural excursions and developed interpersonal relationships with locals to deepen contextual understanding

  • Partnerships & Equity Team Leader at Boston University Center for Career Development
    May 2023 - Dec 2024 · 1 yr 8 mos

    - Built and operationalized a new Ambassador team from the ground up, focused on establishing and sustaining partnerships with campus stakeholder and advancing equity in the BU career office - Executed extensive project management to fill gaps in previous programming - Facilitated interactive events on an array of career-related topics for dozens of undergraduate and graduates in order to assist students in navigating the career process

  • Forced Displacement Summer School Fellow at Boston University Center on Forced Displacement (CFD)
    Jun 2024 - Jun 2024 · 1 mo

    - Networked with a diverse array of experts related to the refugee regime in Serbia including activists, authors, artists, government officials, and NGO leaders in order to gain an interdisciplinary working knowledge of forced displacement - Volunteered at Serbian NGO, ATINA, to support women refugees in Serbia and supported programming at a refugee camp