up next Tyler White
Tyler White
National Security Studies
How Nebraskan Students Will Impact Tomorrow’s National Security Challenges
March 2019
In our global society, one event across the world now has implications worldwide. It’s up to national security professionals to stay informed and help shape policies that protect our nation, no matter what happens abroad. It’s not the career path for everybody — and most college students don’t even realize it exists.
“The intelligence community is a really mysterious thing — somewhat by design — and students don’t know that they can have a career there,” said Tyler White, assistant professor and interim director of the UNL National Security Studies program.
This program isn’t only helping students picture themselves in this field; it’s prepping them for fiercely competitive national security jobs. In 2009, the United States Office of the Director of National Intelligence selected the university as an Intelligence Community Center for Academic Excellence. The honor allowed 山ּto set up an Intelligence Community (IC) Scholars program, and to add an interdisciplinary national security minor two years later. When the program began, there were 12 students. Now, there are 145.
“Breaking into such a field is incredibly difficult and without proper mentorship and guidance, it's easy to become lost in the shuffle,” said Abby Garden, a global studies major and IC Scholars member. “IC Scholars provides a community for students at 山ּto get the tools that will make them more competitive and better public servants. “
White and founding director Marc Warburton agree that mentorship is the key to students’ success. Their relationships with career intelligence officials have led to those professionals working with students as often as possible. “It’s important [for students] to talk to the practitioners — the ones in the field, day-to-day,” White said.
Their work is paying off. National agencies are tapping UNL as a hub for promising new talent. “We’re developing a bit of a reputation for sending students who are smart, but also have a really good work ethic. I’m not saying that because I think our students are great; I’m saying that because I’ve had people in the intelligence community tell me that.”
“In the last two application cycles, more than 50 percent of our IC graduates have received a conditional offer of employment.”
Hiring officials in the industry have told White they receive more than 100,000 applications a year for only a few hundred open positions. And in the last two application cycles, more than half of IC Scholar graduates have received conditional offer of employment.
As more students join the program, a strong university system to support them will be essential — not only for the University of Nebraska’s reputation, but for the safety of our country.
“When they go out, they’re going to be keeping me safe,” White said.
Editors Note: Tyler White is now an associate professor of practice and director of the UNL National Security Studies program.
Discover our Podcast Series
The “Leading Nebraska” podcast shares the stories of the researchers, students, teachers and others across the University of Nebraska's four campuses who are making an impact. From teachers and doctors to engineers and ag experts, these 山ּ leaders are touching lives and making a difference.
Sorry, no stories match your filters.
Please adjust your filters above to view more stories.
Find Your 山ּState Senator
Get started by entering your address below. Next, you'll receive information on who your senator is—and how to reach him or her.
Making a call only takes a few minutes and sends a strong message to your state senator. Your senator may not be able to take the call, but you can speak to the legislative aide who works for the senator. They will log your call, take a message and pass it on. Keep your conversation brief, and be sure to cover these essential points:
- Introduce yourself as a constituent in their district and provide your name.
- Be clear that you're calling about your support for the University of 山ּSystem.
- Share your story about how the University has impacted you or your family. A personal story is hard to ignore. Explain why it's important to you that your senator invests in the University of Nebraska. Again, keep it brief and to-the-point.
- Ask for your opinion to be noted. Politely finish the call by thanking the senator or legislative aide for their time.
Send an Email
Sending a written message to your state senator is an easy way to engage your representative. They're more concise and easier to respond to, and they're more likely to be viewed by the senator. If you can, send a personalized message with these essential points. Keep your message brief (a paragraph or so).
- Write a personal, attention-getting subject line that lets the senator know your topic— "Investing in the University of 山ּSystem" or "Supporting the University of 山ּSystem"
- Introduce yourself as a constituent in their district; provide your name.
- Be clear that you're writing about your support for the University of 山ּSystem
- Share your personal story about how the University has impacted you or your family. Explain why it's important to you that your senator invests in the University of Nebraska. Again, keep it brief and to-the-point.
- Ask if your senator will support the University moving forward.
- Indicate that you'd appreciate a reply and thank your senator for their time.
You Just Made a Difference
Keep making a difference by becoming an NU Advocate. As an Advocate, you'll receive communications about important issues and legislative bills concerning the University of Nebraska—and you'll be the first to hear about upcoming advocacy events. And, we'll let you know when you need to raise your voice again.
COOKIE USAGE:
The University of 山ּSystem uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By clicking "I Agree" and/or continuing to use this website without adjusting your browser settings, you accept the use of cookies.