In the room where it happens: Roberto Sherman's journey to the U.S. State Department

When Roberto Sherman first set foot in Washington, D.C., this past January, he knew he was stepping into an opportunity of a lifetime. The senior political science major from Minnesota State Moorhead had been selected for the highly competitive U.S. Department of State Student Internship Program – a journey that would challenge him, inspire him, and solidify his passion for a career in international law and diplomacy.

Sherman, who will graduate from MSUM in 2025 with a political science degree and an emphasis in pre-law, spent much of the spring semester interning with the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of African Affairs. His selection for the prestigious program was the culmination of a rigorous six-month application process. As part of the internship, the government provided housing and support – leaving Sherman to focus on the once-in-a-lifetime work ahead of him.

Starting on January 27, Sherman quickly immersed himself in the fast-paced world of diplomacy. His days were filled with high-level meetings, including sessions with the Secretary of State, Deputy Secretary, and members of both the Senate and House foreign relations committees. Sherman's role was to listen carefully, take notes, and write detailed briefings and summaries, which he presented to his supervisor.

BA in Political Science

"Being able to sit in the room with the Secretary of State – it was surreal," Sherman said. "At first, I was nervous, but I learned that no matter how tough things get, you push through the day. You always ask the tough questions no matter who is in the room with you."

One standout moment for Sherman was attending the Powering Africa Summit, a major event that convenes leaders from across the continent to address energy challenges. As someone of Liberian descent, being in the same room as the Vice President of Liberia made a deep impact.

Throughout his internship, Sherman contributed to a variety of key projects, including congressional engagements, assisting domestic and foreign partners on U.S. Africa policy, assisting the Public Affairs Team in compiling sensitive media coverage to keep senior bureau officials informed about development on the African continent, and working on the Annual Comprehensive Public Diplomacy (ACPD) report for the Bureau of African Affairs. Beyond the professional experience, he built meaningful relationships – friendships and professional connections that he hopes will continue as he charts his future.

"This is not a goodbye; it's a 'see you later'," he told his supervisor at the end of his internship.

Sherman's time in D.C. also expanded his career goals. While he has long planned to attend law school, the experience opened his eyes to the possibilities within international law and diplomacy. He is currently preparing to take the LSAT this fall and will apply to law schools such as Georgetown University, Howard University, and George Washington University – all located in Washington, D.C.

"I've always wanted to give back to my country and community," Sherman said. "Now, I also want to be part of building diplomatic relationships and creating positive change on a global scale."

Originally attending Emporia State University in Kansas City, Sherman transferred to MSUM to be closer to family in Fargo. On campus, he quickly made his mark, serving as a student diplomat for the Global Engagement Office, helping international students settle in, and hosting cultural events like the Celebration of Nations. Sherman has also been named to the Dean's List for five semesters, was inducted into Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society, the National Society of Leadership and Success, and is active in the Black/African Student Union. He was the recipient of the Jim Danielson Scholarship Award for Outstanding Political Science and received a Certificate of Completion for Outstanding Performance at the end of his State Department internship – a recognition he treasures.

Sherman credits much of his success to the support and mentorship of MSUM political science advisor Paul Kramer.

"Paul Kramer has been instrumental in helping me get to where I am today," Sherman said. "He never hesitated to help. I'm going to miss him greatly."

Outside of work, one of Sherman's favorite memories of D.C. was seeing the cherry blossoms in full bloom – a moment of beauty and reflection in an otherwise intense semester.

His advice for fellow students? Simple, but powerful: "There are always opportunities out there. Be willing to put in hard work, take initiative, and be passionate. It will work out in the end. Determination is the key."

From Moorhead to the heart of American diplomacy, Roberto Sherman's journey is just beginning.