Originally from Warwick, Rhode Island, Elana Caparco MPP 2027's work before coming to HKS focused on transatlantic security and foreign policy. She earned her B.A. in International Studies from American University, with coursework completed at Freie Universität Berlin, DIS Copenhagen, and the University of Michigan.
In this Q&A, Caparco discusses her time at HKS, her summer internships, and advice to prospective students.
What did you get involved in during your first year at HKS?
One of the best things about my time at HKS has been the freedom to explore diverse interests, ranging from international relations and tech policy to gender policy. Here are some of the opportunities I've capitalized on at HKS.
Research & Teaching: I serve as a research assistant to Ambassador Wendy Sherman at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. I was also a teaching assistant for Madam Bineta Diop’s seminar on UN Security Council Resolution 1325: Women, Peace, and Security, hosted by the Carr Center for Human Rights and the Center for International Development.
Student Leadership: On campus, I organized panels for both the European Conference and the Women in Power Conference. After serving as Diplomacy Chair last year, I am returning as co-chair of Women in Defense, Diplomacy, and Development (W3D)—a network supporting women and allies in international policy careers—this year.
Cohorts: I completed the AISST Policy Fellowship, a reading group examining advanced AI risks, misalignment, audits, semiconductor policy, and governance. I also participated in the Women and Public Policy Program's From Harvard Square to the Oval Office initiative, which equips women leaders with campaign strategies and skills to run for elected office.
“One of the best parts of choosing HKS is the opportunity to explore brand-new ideas, topics, and regions. Stay open to how a changing world might change the way you see yourself changing it.”
What has your summer internship experience been like?
I've been fortunate enough to complete two summer internships this year. The first one was the Mosaic Taiwan Fellowship, which is a youth leadership exchange program hosted by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Centered around the theme “Taiwan in Action,” the program provided a deep dive into Taiwan’s history, public policy, and pressing geopolitical challenges.
We met with leaders from a wide variety of public and private institutions including the American Institute in Taiwan, the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, ITRI, Taiwan AI Labs, SEMI Taiwan, MediaTek, the Legislative Yuan, and US Taiwan Watch. Visiting cultural and historical landmarks like the Presidential Office, Liberty Square, Taipei 101, Cijin, and Yilan brought Taiwan’s rich history to life. I couldn’t recommend this fellowship enough to future HKS applicants.
The second one was working with Commercial Diplomacy in the U.S. Embassy in Singapore. Here, I worked with the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service (USFCS) to support American business expansion across Southeast Asia through market intelligence, trade event coordination, and commercial advocacy.
What has been your favorite part of your HKS experience so far?
My favorite part of HKS is the people. Engaging with classmates from such diverse backgrounds and hearing their perspectives in class is incredibly eye opening and inspiring.
Beyond class discussions, I love attending the various research center events hosted across campus every day, especially through the Belfer Center of Science and International Affairs. The Center is a great way to explore niche policy topics between lectures.
What advice would you give to applicants considering HKS?
When applying to HKS, it’s essential to think about how specific faculty, courses, and extracurriculars align with your personal and professional goals. However, you need to leave room for discovery. One of the best parts of choosing HKS is the opportunity to explore brand-new ideas, topics, and regions. Stay open to how a changing world might change the way you see yourself changing it.
