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Xavier Isaac enrolled in the Master of International Security Program at the at 91���� to enhance his interest in international affairs. The appeal of the subject developed for him during two study-abroad experiences he had as an undergraduate at Virginia State University.

“Interacting with people from other countries really intrigued me,” he said. “I saw how I took for granted the U.S., the role that we have as being leaders of the free world.”

A couple of factors influenced Isaac’s decision to attend George Mason: in-state tuition and location. But the reputation of the Schar School’s faculty confirmed his choice.

“A lot of the professors I had were not just academics or commentators in the field, they actually had roles and experience working in the government and the private sector,” he said. “It gave a lot more credence to the lessons being taught and I learned a lot because of that.”

Isaac mentions and with a special shoutout to , director of the Program and the (CSPS), as being influential professors and mentors. Laipson, he says, was instrumental in his earning a Boren Fellowship.

“I had a coffee chat with her, and she really helped me with regard to recommendation letters,” he said. “I really appreciated that. I wouldn’t have gotten that fellowship without her support and advocacy.”

In January 2027, Isaac will begin the yearlong Boren Fellowship in Tokyo, Japan. The Boren award provides funding for U.S. undergraduate and graduate students to study critical languages abroad while committing to future public service to enhance U.S. capabilities, deterrence, and readiness. 

“I look at it as another opportunity to expand upon what I’ve learned at the Schar School and have another focus—going overseas and learning another language,” Isaac said. 

Laipson describes Isaac as a thoughtful and hard-working student and was thrilled to learn that he was selected for a Boren Fellowship. 

“The opportunity to be immersed in a foreign culture—especially one as significant as Japan—will make him and any Schar School student a more effective professional in the national security world,” she said. “I am confident he will make the most of his time in Japan.”  

The fellowship will allow Isaac to build on his international security studies at the Schar School while gaining additional language skills and firsthand experience abroad.