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In an era defined by complex global challenges, the need for professionals who can think across disciplines and navigate cross-cultural landscapes has never been greater. Saumya Sampath, currently working as Global Security Program Manager, Hive International, Washington, a distinguished FLAME alumna and a specialist in international security sector reform (SSR), exemplifies the power of an interdisciplinary education in shaping a meaningful global career. With academic roots in International Relations and Digital Marketing, and professional experiences spanning think tanks, policy forums, and field research, Saumya brings a unique perspective to the evolving world of global security. In this interview, she reflects on how her academic journey at FLAME laid the foundation for her career, and shares insights for students aspiring to make an impact in international policy and security.
How did an interdisciplinary approach in education contribute to your global career trajectory?
An interdisciplinary approach in education has significantly contributed to my global career trajectory by equipping me with a versatile skill set, fostering critical thinking, and enabling me to tackle complex challenges across diverse fields. By analyzing problems through multiple perspectives, interdisciplinary education taught me to evaluate conflicting viewpoints objectively and synthesize diverse concepts, a skill that is highly valued in international and cross-cultural professional environments.
Additionally, interdisciplinary education fostered a comprehensive worldview by exposing me to diverse topics and cultures. For instance, projects that combined regional history, geography, and foreign languages enhanced my cultural sensitivity and ability to navigate international contexts effectively.
Can you share specific instances where your interdisciplinary academic foundation helped you navigate complex international security challenges?
Global security and public policy are inherently complex, requiring insights from fields such as political science, economics, sociology, law, and other related disciplines. Exposure to these disciplines enabled me to understand the interplay between social systems, economic factors, and geopolitical dynamics. For example, studying international relations alongside economics, math, and business allowed me to include more nuanced themes in my analysis of specific issues. My earliest experience with such an undertaking was at FLAME University, when I was writing my thesis on Baloch nationalism, which included a historical study of the region and its people but also included a study of the region’s geography and economic participation.
Another pivotal experience was my participation at the yearly Athens Democracy Forum as a student representing FLAME, where I sat amongst diplomats and business leaders and learned how they collaborate on the most critical issues we face as a human community. This required tapping into my communication skills and pushed me to step out of my comfort zone.
How did exposure to diverse disciplines shape your problem-solving skills in the field of global security and public policy?
Global security issues, such as cybersecurity threats, climate-related risks, illegal immigration, and international conflicts, require interdisciplinary approaches. For instance, integrating insights from political science, law, sociology, and technology allows for a deeper understanding of how interconnected systems—social structures, legal frameworks, and technological advancements—impact global security. This ensures that solutions address not only immediate concerns but also the broader implications for peace and stability. Exposure to multiple disciplines has sharpened my ability to analyze problems from diverse angles. For example, combining quantitative methods from economics with qualitative insights from sociology helps evaluate the effectiveness of policies while considering their societal impact. Global security challenges also often require collaboration among governments, private sectors, NGOs, and international organizations. While at FLAME, I also had the opportunity to intern at one of India’s most prominent think tanks, which exposed me to the world of research, diplomacy, and collaborations.
In what ways did emphasis on research, critical thinking, and experiential learning prepare you for your role in international security sector reform (SSR)?
Research has been foundational in understanding the intricate dynamics of SSR, which involves enhancing security institutions to be effective and accountable. For example, studying case-specific analyses of reform efforts in conflict-affected regions like Afghanistan provided insights into the political, economic, and social factors influencing SSR outcomes. Experiential learning has been invaluable in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Field experiences, such as engaging with local networks, have honed my ability to assess ground realities and adapt strategies accordingly. This experience started early in my academic journey, at FLAME. Working with my group on the field during the Discover India Program instilled a sense of academic discipline and responsibility that I carried with me into my graduate education and professional career.
How does an interdisciplinary education foster adaptability in dynamic and multi-layered global sectors such as security and policy implementation?
Global sectors often demand collaboration among experts from different domains. Interdisciplinary education fosters adaptability by teaching individuals to work cohesively with diverse teams. This skill is critical in policy implementation, where cooperation between governments, NGOs, technologists, and local communities is necessary to achieve long-term success. Interdisciplinary learning also encourages creativity and innovation by exposing individuals to varied methodologies and perspectives. This adaptability is crucial in global sectors where emerging challenges—such as technological disruptions or geopolitical shifts—require novel approaches.
For students aspiring to build careers in international policy or security, how essential is a cross-disciplinary academic background in today’s interconnected world?
In today’s deeply interconnected and rapidly evolving world, a cross-disciplinary academic background is not just beneficial—it’s essential for students aspiring to build careers in international policy or security. Global challenges, be they cyber warfare, climate migration, pandemics, energy politics, or space governance, don’t fit neatly into disciplinary silos. A student trained solely in political science may miss the technological implications of quantum computing on arms control. A security studies major without a grounding in economics might struggle to analyze sanctions policy. Likewise, understanding cybersecurity, or AI governance, requires fluency in both strategic theory and technical basics. A cross-disciplinary education allows future policymakers to connect the dots across technology, law, history, economics, and ethics. It fosters the kind of systems thinking and adaptability that modern diplomacy, intelligence, and defense sectors now demand. During my undergraduate education at FLAME, I pursued a double major in International Relations and Digital Marketing precisely for this reason. I wanted to force myself to appreciate the connections between disciplines and systems, to be able to better participate in problem-solving some of the most pressing issues we face as a community.
What advice would you give to students seeking global exposure and careers in international organizations, based on your educational and professional experiences?
Global careers require a deep commitment to understanding the institutions, cultures, and power structures that shape international relations. Read as much as you can, and please go beyond what’s taught in a classroom. My most formative opportunities came not just from what I studied but also from who I learned from. Reach out to mentors, faculty, or senior professionals whose work inspires you. Global exposure isn’t about visiting a place; it’s about learning how to communicate across differences. Listen more than you speak. Learn how diplomacy looks in action. And understand how to work with people who think and operate very differently from you! These skills are unfortunately hard to pick up overnight and cannot simply be learned from reading a book or watching a video. They require that you put yourself out there, be professional and genuine, and be receptive to critical feedback.
