Kevin Drahos, a recent alumnus of the University of Iowa, has earned the highly competitive 2023 Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship.
This prestigious fellowship, funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered by Howard University, is granted to exceptional individuals who seek to pursue careers in the U.S. Foreign Service. Chosen from nearly 900 candidates nationwide, Drahos is only the second UI student to ever receive the fellowship.
Drahos, a Marion, Iowa native, graduated from Iowa in August 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and minors in Spanish and international relations. While at Iowa, he was a member of the Honors Program and held leadership positions in numerous campus organizations.
His academic achievements and professional experience made him an outstanding candidate for the Pickering Fellowship. He completed multiple internships with the U.S. Department of State, working on various projects from coordinating relationships among the diplomatic corps to addressing human rights issues in Cape Town, South Africa.
“Kevin possesses excellent verbal communication skills, adaptability, and outstanding interpersonal skills,” says Ronald McMullen, ambassador in residence and associate professor of practice in the UI Department of Political Science. “He demonstrates immense curiosity about the world and, from my observation, relates well to individuals from diverse backgrounds.”
Drahos' passion for politics, service, and international relations was first ignited during his final semester of high school when he attended the U.S. Senate Youth Program. Listening to a speech by the Italian ambassador to the U.S., Armando Varricchio, Drahos was captivated by the ambassador's description of diplomacy.
Kevin Drahos
Hometown: Marion, Iowa
Degree: BA, political science (minors in Spanish and international relations)
"His description was compelling and, at that moment, I decided I wanted to be a Diplomat."
The UI played a crucial role in reinforcing Drahos' decision to pursue diplomacy. While studying abroad in Madrid, he discovered how much he loved intercultural connections and traveling. McMullen, guest speakers at the Iowa City Foreign Relations Council, and the Department of Political Science provided guidance and inspiration. Drahos was able to develop his skills, network, and gain invaluable knowledge about the field while at Iowa.
“The University of Iowa was instrumental in my success personally and professionally," says Drahos. "Throughout my time at Iowa, I had incredible support from the Department of Political Science, the Office of Scholar Development, and International Programs. I am and will always be grateful for the guidance, mentoring, and support I’ve received from so many at the university.”
The Pickering Fellowship will provide Drahos with support for a two-year master's degree in a field relevant to the U.S. Foreign Service, as well as internships, mentorship, and skills training. Upon successful completion of the program, Drahos will join the ranks of U.S. diplomats in the summer of 2025.
“Being a U.S. Foreign Service officer is, in my opinion, the best job in the world for those with a service orientation and a sense of adventure,” says McMullen. “Entering the foreign service is incredibly competitive, with only about 4% of applicants ultimately being sworn in as U.S. diplomats. The Pickering Fellowship significantly increases one's chances.”
Drahos plans to join the U.S. Foreign Service as a political officer, traveling around the world to strengthen ties with international partners, defend the U.S. against emerging national security issues, and increase opportunities for intercultural connections. The Pickering Fellowship will provide him with the financial support, mentorship, and networking opportunities to achieve his goals and improve his ability to operate effectively and efficiently anywhere in the world.
“I hope to add a valuable perspective to national security discussions and demonstrate how diversity strengthens diplomacy and our nation. I’m ready to proudly and openly serve internationally,” Drahos says.
Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship
The Pickering Fellowship Program is a U.S. Department of State program that aims to enhance the excellence and diversity of the U.S. Foreign Service. Fellows receive academic, professional, and financial support from the program, helping prepare them for their careers as Foreign Service Officers.
Office of Scholar Development
The Office of Scholar Development supports current undergraduates and recent alumni as they pursue national fellowships and grant opportunities to fund their intellectual, professional, and creative goals and connect with peer communities.