After completing his two-year Peace Corps service in Ukraine from 2018 until March 2020, Kiran Swamy ’12 now works as an official for Peace Corps Headquarters in Washington DC. As the Country Desk Officer for Paraguay, Peru, and Solomon Islands, he has been supporting the re-entry of volunteers after the global COVID-19 evacuation, as well as the bilateral country agreement negotiations between the government of Solomon Islands and the Peace Corps.
What inspired you to pursue a career in public service, diplomacy, and international relations?
I always had an interest in public service and global development, but my interest level really piqued during college at Sacred Heart University when I participated with international service projects in Guatemala.
How do you think your time at Kellenberg Memorial helped to prepare you for your success in your academic and professional pursuits?
Kellenberg actually played a huge role in paving my career path. In 2017, I volunteered as an English teacher in Honiara, Solomon Islands with Archbishop Chris Cardone. This experience enabled me to reflect on my desires for future Peace Corps service, and it provided me with an incredible life experience that gave me the skills eventually succeed as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine.
Do you have any advice for current students or young alumni interested in pursuing a career in international relations?
My best piece of simple, practical advice would be to have an open mind. If you’re open to different paths or ideas, then you will put yourself in a position to gain worthwhile experiences that will help you in the long run.
Do you have any favorite teachers, coaches, or club moderators from your time at Kellenberg Memorial?
Father Tom and Brother Ken… but those are easy answers. When I was a student at Kellenberg I was closest with Mr. Len Breton.
