Interview by Andrew Schmidt, ’24
Joseph’s interest in international studies began during his childhood as an international kid from Lagos Nigeria. His international experience began his interest in foreign policy and when coupled with his passion to drive things forward, he decided to enter Baylor University in the International Studies Program.
Early on in his academic career, it was clear that he had picked the right major. International Studies allowed him to pursue his passions with professors that helped him to not only grow as a student but also help him grow professionally and figure out what career was right for him. One of these professors who helped him the most was Dr. Wayne Hampton and his Global Business class. Joseph found this class to be impactful because it taught him how to do research in an academic manner, but then present his findings to a non-academic audience. Another class and professor who helped Joseph out was Dr. Daniel Ogden and his Global Trade Compliance class. This has helped Joseph tremendously in his career as he has used much of what he has learned in his job, but also Dr. Ogden was always eager to offer advice to Joseph and help guide him along his academic and professional journey to where he is today.
Possibly the most important part of Joseph’s college were the internships he was able to take part in. His first internship came as a remote internship during the spring of his junior year. During this period, he worked as a foreign government procurement advocacy intern for the International Trade Administration (ITA). This was his first position within the ITA and it allowed him to grow in his knowledge of the international trade space, doing research and ensuring that trade of goods was fair and compliant. His next internship came as a surprise, as he was offered the position due to a paper he wrote regarding the dairy market in the United Arab Emirates and avenues for market entry. This internship was with the US Dairy Export Council and although Joseph enjoyed the internship, he continued to be drawn towards the ITA and their work. This brought Joseph to his final internship which he did during his time at the Baylor in Washington Program. Here he worked as a legislative intern with the ITA as well as a Congressional Intern. He continued to love the work he did with the ITA which inspired him to apply for their open positions. After an initial rejection, he got the position he is in now as an International Trade Compliance Analyst with the ITA where he works primarily on antidumping cases.
Joseph was a tremendous student at Baylor and continues to maintain his relationships with his professors, so he offered words of advice for any new International Studies Majors or new college students in general. His advice is to use Baylor’s numerous resources and to not just be a student at Baylor, “make an effort to make an impact.” Do not be passive, have an impact on your school and leave your mark.
Going forward Joseph will continue working in his position at the International Trade Administration. Starting in the spring of 2025 Joseph will be attending George Washington University in Washington D.C. to further his education and obtain a Masters of Art in International Economic Policy.
