In this Q&A, we speak with Tin Pak, a senior majoring in international studies and political science, who was selected as a 2025-26 recipient of the Donald C. and Margery S. Hellmann Scholarship award.
Unique to the Jackson School, the Hellmann Scholarship provides a $5,000 stipend to support the education and training of Jackson School undergraduates with demonstrated excellence in international studies, clear interest in a career in international affairs, and a strong and creative commitment to promoting the international public good.
Name: Tin Pak
Major(s): International Studies and Political Science
Expected to graduate: Spring 2026
Hometown: Seattle, Washington
What made you choose the University of Washington?
My father and mother are both alumni of UW, so it felt like the natural choice.
What led you to the Jackson School?
I remember a particularly engaging conversation I had with a group of Jackson School students that sparked my interest in international affairs.
What was your reaction like to becoming a Hellmann Scholar?
I was extremely grateful to the Jackson School and all its staff who thought I was worthy enough for this honor.
How will this award help your goals and career path?
I aim to pursue a graduate degree in international security and work as an analyst at leading think tanks crafting policy and guiding world leaders towards securing peace.
What Jackson School class has impacted you the most and why?
[Assistant Teaching Professor] Jessica Beyer’s Cybersecurity Fellowship class provided me the freedom to pursue my research interests to the fullest. Her mentorship and guidance were phenomenal, and I learned so much about doing intensive graduate-level research.
What key skills have you learned at the Jackson School that you’ll apply to your career?
The importance of networking. In the field of international affairs, personal connections are the most important factor. Through connections, projects can form, and ideas can be shared. At the end of the day, whether we enter the foreign service, the Jackson School through its courses and many programs, teaches you how to be a diplomat.
Any advice for prospective Jackson School students?
Attend all events that the Jackson School and its student organizations host. It’s a great opportunity to connect with people just as passionate in international affairs as you.
