Diplomacy & Peace Studies

The atmosphere of the U.S. Embassy in Tallinn feels charged with purpose. You’re meeting senior diplomatic officials, possibly even the U.S. Ambassador if their schedule allows, for an inside look at American diplomacy. This embassy, founded nearly a century ago in 1922, became a symbol of resilience during Estonia’s Soviet occupation, when the U.S. upheld a policy of non-recognition. Following Estonia’s independence in 1991, the embassy resumed operations on Kentmanni Street, continuing its commitment to peace and partnership.

You and your cohort of Global Navigators have prepared for this moment, crafting questions on topics from global security to cultural diplomacy. The officials are generous with their responses, offering valuable insights into the complexities of U.S.-Estonia relations.

The experience of visiting an embassy and engaging with diplomats is one that many foreign service workers say shaped their own career paths. It’s an impressive addition to your university applications, essays, and projects—demonstrating a genuine passion for diplomacy and global peace. You leave inspired, envisioning your future role in a more connected world.

Nõmme Adventure Park is surrounded by Estonia's lush greenery and impressively tall trees. Looking up, you see the canopy webbed with treetop obstacle courses. As you clip in and step onto the first course, you feel a thrill of excitement and a hint of nerves. Each level gets progressively higher and more challenging, requiring balance, bravery, and teamwork as you move through swinging bridges, tightropes, and wobbly platforms. At the end of each course, you’re rewarded with a zip-line ride that sends you soaring through the trees, adrenaline and laughter mixing with the wind in your face.

This experience isn’t just a physical challenge—it’s an exercise in cooperation, a key skill for anyone interested in diplomacy. You and your fellow Global Navigators cheer each other on, share tips for getting past tricky obstacles, and celebrate each small victory together, building camaraderie that strengthens your group’s connection.

It’s been a fun day outside the classroom, a reminder of the excitement of travel and adventure. Along with meaningful experiences, these summer days are filled with challenge, connection, and memories to last a lifetime.