Bio

Hi, I’m Shawnna Robert. I am currently working at a European Union institution full time and as a diplomatic analyst part time. With ninja-like internet research and technology skills, I bring positive energy along with analytical and project management skills to any challenge I face. I also build strong interpersonal relationships with clients and coworkers, and I use this network as a resource when completing my work. Read on to learn how I made the jump from graphic design to international relations, why I ended up in Sweden, and what I’ve been doing lately. 

In 2008, I was working as a graphic designer and had just discovered key information about my strengths; while I am a good designer, I am better at and truly enjoy collaborating with diverse groups and analyzing disparate information. I searched for months for a way to combine my newly discovered skills with my longstanding passions for American government, world politics, and travel. A chance encounter in line with a diplomat and three years later, I ended up at U.S. Embassy Stockholm. I had enrolled in a master program in international studies at Uppsala University and landed an internship with the State Department. As the political intern, I had a first hand opportunity to work alongside diplomats to advance U.S. foreign policy objectives around the world on both reporting projects and public diplomacy projects. My interest in topics of security and diplomacy brought me to DiploNews, where I currently analyze diplomatic news on a daily basis for an audience of key decision makers based around the globe. My interest in EU institutions and its transatlantic relationship with the U.S. lead me to the European Commission, where I work to coordinate the activities for the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region.

My colleagues would probably say that I’m very passionate about the work that I do, but work is not my only passion. At home, I spend most of my time being active outdoors, in the gym, or in the kitchen. The rest of my time is usually spent planning my next great adventure. Some recent successful adventures include backpacking through the Balkans, learning Swedish, and running a few races. My current great adventures include an ongoing quest to join the U.S. Foreign Service and exploring my new city of Brussels.