Camila Tapias

Why did you choose the Trachtenberg School?

I came to GW as an international student-athlete on the women’s basketball team, and the university had already become such an important part of my life. Through the Presidential Fellowship, I had the opportunity to continue at GW for graduate school while working in the Office of the President. The MPA felt like a natural fit because I wanted a practical, versatile degree that would prepare me to lead and serve across sectors. I did not know exactly where my career would take me, but I knew I wanted to understand how government, business, nonprofits, and communities could work together.

Looking back, what are the most valuable skills, tools, or aha-moments you gained at Trachtenberg that you still rely on today?

One of my biggest takeaways from Trachtenberg was learning how to work across sectors and understand how different institutions approach the same challenge. After graduate school, I moved from higher education into consulting, where I supported FEMA, local and state governments, NATO, the United Nations, and other organizations on emergency management, preparedness, and resilience. Today, I work in the technology sector leading federal programs and development. I still rely on that same ability to navigate public, private, and international perspectives, build partnerships, and translate complex needs into practical solutions.

In what ways did the Trachtenberg community—whether professors, peers, or alumni—support or influence your career?

What I valued most about Trachtenberg was being surrounded by people with such different experiences, backgrounds, and ambitions. As an international student, I always prided myself on being a global citizen, and GW helped strengthen that perspective through its faculty, students, leaders, and location in Washington, D.C. Those experiences expanded how I think about leadership, institutions, and service. My connection to GW continues today through my service on the Board of Trustees, and I am grateful to still contribute to a university community that has shaped so much of my personal and professional journey.