Diplomatic Immersion, Policy Learning, and Observation (D.I.P.L.O.)
OVERVIEW
Founded in 2025 by Rice University's Master of Global Affairs (MGA) students in partnership with the Consul General of France in Houston, Dean of the Consular Corps, and the James A. Baker, III Institute for Public Policy, Diplomatic Immersion, Policy Learning, and Observation (D.I.P.L.O.) is a unique gateway into the world of modern diplomacy.
This innovative program blends high-impact mentoring with real-world immersion through:
- Briefings by consuls general based in Houston.
- Direct exposure to the daily work of senior diplomats.
- Engaged, real-world policy work impacting today's international relations.
PROGRAM COMPONENTS
- Day 1- Day with the Consul General
- Students discover behind-the-scenes access to the consulate.
- Bespoke exchanges with the Head of Mission and their team, e.g. 'a day in the life.'
- In-depth discussions analyzing key diplomatic issues impacting the host mission.
- Interim Work
- The Consul General proposes 3-4 policy areas impacting their diplomatic mission at home or abroad. Students divide into teams and have five days to submit their policy brief for the Head of Mission (or designated person).
- Day 2- Presentations at Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy
- Student teams present their policy briefs to a jury of Baker Institute fellows and Consul General members, with an opportunity for Q&A from the jury.
- A lunch is offered for members of Houston's Consular Corps and Master of Global Affairs students, with an award for the best policy brief.
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2025 Host Mission: Consulate of France in Houston
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- Consul General: Valérie Baraban
- Student Lead: Amir Abdel Aziz Zouaoui, '26
- Team Projects:
- Strengthening UN Support for Peace and Security in Haiti
- Alliance Forestière 2025 Projet de Collaboration Environnementale
- Feminist Foreign Policy on Abortion
- Paris Summit: Outcome Document on the Diplomacy of the African Union, French Republic and the Group of Four