Preparing for a Career in Global Security

From her first semester at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott Campus, Michelle Malan (’26) knew she wanted her education to lead directly to a career in global security and intelligence.

As a Global Security & Intelligence Studies student, Malan has built an academic path focused on preparation — combining rigorous coursework, real-world internships and leadership experiences designed to mirror the work of professionals in the intelligence community.

“I was drawn to the Global Security & Intelligence Studies program because of its focus on career preparedness,” Malan said. “I knew I wanted a degree that would prepare me for a profession in the security and intelligence field, and this program allowed me to specialize in subjects I was genuinely interested in rather than pursuing a traditional political science degree,” she said.

That decision laid the groundwork for a college experience focused on academic learning and real-world application.

Strengthening Global Perspective Through Academics

Malan’s academic journey shows a clear effort to develop a well-rounded understanding of security challenges.

In addition to her major, she is pursuing minors in Emergency Planning and Management and Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies — two areas that complement intelligence work in different ways.

“My minor in Emergency Planning and Management expanded on many of the concepts introduced in classes like SIS 335 Disaster Resilience and Recovery and SIS 430 Emergency Management and Contingency Planning,” Malan said.

Those courses helped her understand how governments and organizations plan for crises and manage complex emergency scenarios. The knowledge also helped her secure an internship with the Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management during her senior year.

Her second minor focuses on language and cultural awareness — key skills for professionals working in international security environments.

“My Arabic and Middle Eastern Studies minor has enhanced my language proficiency and cultural awareness, making me a more well-rounded student and better prepared for work in a global security environment,” she said.

Throughout her studies, Malan has maintained a 4.0 GPA while balancing multiple responsibilities and internships. For her, academic success comes down to preparation and building relationships with faculty.

“I consistently utilize professors’ office hours, which has strengthened both my professional relationships and academic performance,” she said. “Balancing multiple jobs and responsibilities has also sharpened my time management skills.”

Certain courses have pushed her even further, particularly those designed to simulate real intelligence scenarios.

One of the most memorable experiences came during “Crisis Week” in the SIS 328 Intelligence Analysis, Writing and Briefing course.

“In the SIS 328 course, students receive a crisis topic and have two hours to write a two-page Short Form Analytical Report (SFAR), answering a specific intelligence question before briefing the professor in person,” Malan said.

“This project, known as Crisis Week, really challenged and reinforced the importance of decisive thinking under pressure.”

Exercises like these give students a glimpse into the fast-paced environment that intelligence professionals often face. 

Internships That Mirror Real Intelligence Work

While classroom experiences provide a strong foundation, Malan has spent much of her time at Embry-Riddle applying what she learned through internships across the security and intelligence community.

She has interned with organizations, including Draper, the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), BSI and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). Across these roles, she contributed to analytical and investigative work while gaining exposure to the operational side of national security.

“All of these experiences have helped me realize I am in the right field,” Malan shared. “From collaborating with experienced professionals to contributing to meaningful projects, I saw firsthand how intelligence and security work directly impact national interests.”

Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA)

During her internship with DCSA, Malan worked within the National Industrial Security Program, focusing on operational planning and facility security.

“My experience at DCSA demonstrated how operational-level planning directly supports national security,” she said.

As part of the internship, she analyzed four major factors affecting secure facilities and presented her findings to more than 100 agency personnel.

“I also developed a risk assessment using analytical frameworks I learned at Embry-Riddle,” Malan explained.

Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS)

Her experience with NCIS offered another perspective on the field by placing her alongside agents conducting investigative work.

“Working alongside NCIS agents provided invaluable insight into the operational side of law enforcement and investigative work,” she said.

Supporting evidence handling, interviews and investigative processes helped her understand how intelligence analysis contributes to criminal investigations.

Global Risk Analysis with BSI

Meanwhile, during her time with BSI, Malan monitored international incidents and analyzed emerging threats.

“Analyzing a high volume of international incidents revealed the constant and evolving nature of global risk,” she said. “There is no shortage of emerging threats, which reinforced the need for objective evaluation and pattern recognition.”

Building Leadership Through Real-World Experience

Across all of these experiences, she said leadership and initiative became some of the most valuable skills she developed.

“In several internships, I was the only intern in the office, which required me to define my own objectives and take ownership of my responsibilities,” she said.

Seeing how intelligence professionals analyze risks, support investigations and contribute to national security operations ultimately reinforced why she chose this field in the first place. 

A Commitment to Public Service

For her, pursuing a career in global security is ultimately about service.

“I am highly motivated to positively impact others through public service,” she shared. “I value the opportunity to work behind the scenes to protect people and strengthen national security.”

Outside of academics and internships, she prioritizes maintaining balance and relationships. She hopes to help others understand the realities of careers in intelligence.

“Many people underestimate the complexity and diversity of the intelligence community,” she said. “Intelligence work extends far beyond what is portrayed in the media.”

Looking Ahead

By the time she graduates, Malan will have completed six internships — giving her a broad perspective on intelligence analysis, investigations and operational planning.

As she continues building her career, Malan also hopes to support and mentor students who are beginning their own path in the field, sharing the guidance and opportunities that helped shape her own journey.

Her advice to incoming students reflects that mindset.

“Build strong relationships with your professors, take advantage of every opportunity and apply for internships, even if you feel underqualified,” she said. “Be proactive, prioritize your goals and remain involved both academically and professionally.”

With a strong academic record, extensive internship experience and a commitment to public service, Malan is already building the foundation for a career dedicated to protecting others and strengthening national security.