Emily Boutin
I'm Emily Boutin, a Marine officer and former D1 athlete from the United States currently pursuing a Master in International Relations at IE University. If I had to describe myself in three words, I'd say I’m disciplined, fun-loving and a foodie. From mountaineering and skydiving to a rigorous workout regime and a love for high-quality cuisine, I seek diverse experiences. I am here to develop specialized knowledge in the security realm of geopolitics. My goal is to one day leverage my understanding of international perspectives to work in a career where I have the power to choose peace.
"This experience has significantly broadened and refined my global and strategic perspectives."
Global perspectives, personal impact: a military officer's journey in international relations
For Emily Boutin, discipline is a way of life. As a US Marine officer, former Division 1 athlete and current student in the Master in International Relations program at IE University, she embodies a dedication to excellence that extends far beyond the classroom. However, beneath this disciplined exterior lies a fun-loving spirit with a penchant for adventure and a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives.
Prior to joining IE University, Emily attended the US Naval Academy. She also has a long background in athletics, racing Division 1 track and cross country. Her diverse professional experience includes being a ranger in New Mexico, a skydiver and even a piano player, showcasing a desire to embrace life to its fullest.
It was her military background that ultimately motivated Emily to pursue a Master in International Relations. Having grown up in a military family, she witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of war on individuals and communities. She explains, "I’m studying international relations because I want to bring that deeply personal understanding to discussions about geopolitics and security, and one day work in a career where I have the power to choose peace."
The Eisenhower Global Scholars Fellowship and IE University's global outlook particularly attracted her to the program. She wanted to be surrounded by people with different ways of thinking who would challenge her assumptions. This desire for diverse perspectives has been richly fulfilled during her time here.
The caring nature of the professors has also impressed Emily during her experience so far. She appreciates their willingness to engage in healthy debate and hear student perspectives. "The most valuable aspect has definitely been the dialogue between students and professors," she enthuses.
Living in Madrid has been another highlight, providing invaluable cultural immersion and a variety of exciting events. "The city is incredible and there’s always something new happening here," she says. She advises anyone who comes to IE University to make the most of the opportunities available in the Spanish capital.
But it's her peers who have impacted Emily the most. "My classmates have helped me understand lectures, readings and projects in ways that wouldn’t have been possible if I were alone, or back in the United States," she says. "This experience has significantly broadened and refined my global and strategic perspectives. I am so grateful to be surrounded by a ton of different nationalities, and to try to understand the perspectives of all different kinds of people."
During the program, she's been able to participate in transformative experiences. This includes a week-long seminar at the Hertie School in Berlin to study fertility and population trends in China. This allowed her to meet many brilliant people from around the world. "The education is key, but what really makes this program special is the connections with other passionate people," she affirms.
When asked about the future, Emily says she’ll still be serving as a combat aviator in the military in five years’ time, flying missions and taking care of other Marines. After that, she hopes to leverage her studies and passion for geopolitics to be more involved in conflict resolution. In the long term, her goal is to have a positive impact on those around her.
For those considering the Master in International Relations at IE University, Emily advises them to come prepared to actively engage with diverse viewpoints, clarify their specific interests early and take advantage of IE University's unique access to global experts.
As she continues her journey, Emily reflects on how the program has been truly eye-opening, significantly broadening and refining her global and strategic perspectives. The program’s strong network and international focus position her to achieve her goals in the military and beyond, allowing her to have a lasting, positive impact on global affairs.