Meet Lee Clark, 2016 Alum

Lee Clark is a 2016 graduate of the Patterson School and studied Security/Intelligence and Diplomacy. With an interest in nuclear strategy and cyber strategy, he worked at Booz Allen Hamilton, a large defense contractor. At Booz Allen, he worked as a Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst and an Information Systems Security Specialist in the Middle East and Aerospace markets, respectively. He currently works at a global, private-sector organization, Information Sharing and Analysis Center (ISAC). ISAC is a nonprofit organization that studies cybersecurity threats and educates businesses in the retail, hospitality, and travel sectors about threats in their industry. His job has allowed him to visit multiple cities such as London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Delhi, just to name a few.

Clark credits Professor Max Wise for instructing one of his favorite classes and teaching substantial real-world skills and methods. Introduction to Intelligence (DIP 700) and Analytical Methods (DIP 727) are two Patterson classes that Clark has found very impactful and useful in his current professional career. He uses his Patterson skills daily by writing memos, writing presentations, and speaking about relevant topics.

Clark’s advice to current Patterson students includes three things. First, take advantage of and seek out study abroad and internship opportunities, even if they are outside of your field. Second, your cohort is the beginning of your professional network and connections base. Finally, Patterson gives you a general holistic approach to international affairs, so it is important to find topics you are interested in and build those interests into specialties to create your niche.