How did the coursework and research you did while a student at UCLA prepare you for an international career?
World Arts and Cultures' curriculum and my own independent research exposed me to different cultural values and expression. At a basic level, understanding that politics, economics, art, etc. is understood and enacted differently in different parts of the world, and by people with different interests and experiences, makes it easier to have conversations -- finding common ground, of course, but also appreciating the differences and especially when those differences matter.
What would you say to a UCLA student who is planning on having an international career?
Take advantage of the incredibly rich cultural experiences you can have while being a student. Go to art shows, audit an international politics course, talk to the person sitting next to you in class or at a picnic table. Make international connections now so you get a grounding in the world beyond US borders -- or beyond the relationship that your home country has with the US. I'm in the Green Party so...try not to fly.