Student Spotlight: Arianna Ferry

Arianna Ferry is a Florida State University senior pursuing dual degrees through the Middle Eastern Studies Program, part of the Department of Modern Languages and Linguistics in the College of Arts and Sciences, and the International Affairs Program, part of the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy. Her studies center on national security, defense, counterterrorism, and the relationship between international affairs and domestic policy with the goal of developing a deeper understanding of global security challenges and their implications for the United States. In Summer 2026, as part of the FSU DC Study Away Program in Washington, D.C., Ferry interned with the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies at the National Defense University, where she supported faculty research on international security issues and strategic partnerships throughout the Western Hemisphere. She’s expected to graduate in 2027.

Tell us a little about your background, where you’re from and what brought you to FSU.

I’m Colombian American and grew up in Palm Beach, Florida. I chose FSU because I wanted the opportunity to study abroad, and I participated in the First Semester Abroad program in London as a freshman through FSU’s International Programs. That experience introduced me to some of my closest friends and strengthened my interest in international affairs.

What inspired you to pursue degrees in Middle Eastern studies and international affairs?

I’ve been interested in public service and foreign affairs since I was in high school. Growing up, I traveled frequently to visit family in Colombia and spent time living abroad, which sparked my interest in world politics and national security.

When I arrived at FSU, I entered with Advanced Placement credits and decided to pursue a second degree since I was ahead of schedule. Courses in FSU’s Department of Public Administration sparked my interest in the Middle East, while my work with the Florida Department of Financial Services Criminal Investigations Division reinforced my desire to pursue a career in public service. These experiences motivated me to deepen my understanding of the region by adding Middle Eastern studies as my second degree.

Can you break down your areas of research for us?

I currently work on two long-term research projects at the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies, a Department of Defense research institute at Fort McNair in Washington, D.C. One focuses on security cooperation among the U.S., Mexico and Canada, including border security, maritime security, drug policy, and developments following the events of Sept. 11, 2001. My second project examines the implementation of Chinese “smart city” surveillance programs in South America, focusing on Ecuador and the intersection of surveillance technology, emergency response systems and data privacy.

Tell us more about your experience with the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies at the National Defense University.

The Perry Center brings together security and defense practitioners to encourage dialogue, strategic thinking and shared solutions related to defense sector governance. Through academics, research and outreach, the center works to strengthen institutional capacity and promote greater understanding of U.S. policy throughout the Western Hemisphere.

As a research intern, I assisted faculty with academic projects, publications, and courses related to security and defense in the region. My work supported research that informed U.S. policy and defense activities in the Western Hemisphere, while giving me firsthand experience with regional security and defense issues.

What do you want the public to know about the importance of your work?

I want the public to know how important international partnerships are, especially when it comes to trade, border security and regional stability. Research helps us better understand how neighboring countries and international partners operate and how those relationships affect the U.S.

What aspect of your areas of study do you find most rewarding?

The most rewarding research I’ve done has focused on human rights and security. Data privacy is something many people take for granted, and learning more about it has shown me the importance of protecting personal information. I’ve also enjoyed researching child welfare systems and the role government programs play in supporting communities.

What on-campus resources have helped you achieve success?

My mentors, professors, and the FSU Career Center have all played an important role in my success. The Career Center helped prepare me professionally and introduced me to the DC Study Away Program, which led to my internship in Washington.

What are some current goals or projects that you’re working on?

Along with my research at the Perry Center, I’m also involved in projects through the Florida State University College of Law Research Center, where I help decode historical notes from Florida Supreme Court justices. Upon returning to campus this fall, I’m excited to become more involved with FSU’s Student Government Association and the Hispanic/Latinx Student Union.

Are there any faculty or staff who have helped or inspired you?

Several faculty and staff members have had a significant impact on my academic journey. FSU Emergency Management and Homeland Security Program professor Audrey Heffron-Casserleigh and associate teaching professor and Army Col. Robert Duggleby encouraged me to pursue a career in the field. The Career Center staff also provided valuable professional guidance.

Following graduation, what are your plans?

I’m excited by the variety of career paths available in this field. Ideally, I’d like to work abroad as a public affairs officer in London or participate in the Fulbright Scholar Program conducting research in the Middle East. If the opportunity arises to return to Washington, D.C., I’d also love to continue working in national security, defense, human rights or related policy areas.