Exploring Space Security and International Collaboration: A Week at DKI APCSS in Honolulu
Last week, my journey as a doctoral student in global security took me to a remarkable destination—not just geographically but intellectually as well. I traveled to Honolulu to engage firsthand with experts and peers at my doctoral practicum site, the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (DKI APCSS). This visit was not just a routine academic requirement but a pivotal part of my education, filled with networking, presentations, and profound learning experiences surrounding space security.
Engaging with Experts and Future Security Leaders
My primary purpose in Honolulu was to immerse myself in the vibrant academic environment of DKI APCSS, mainly to participate in the space security elective that is part of the Comprehensive Security Cooperation 5-week course. The center, known for its intensive programs that focus on building capacities and understanding in various security domains, was the ideal place to contribute and grow.
A significant highlight of my visit was meeting with my mentor, Dr. Alfred Oehlers. We delved deep into the curriculum we are developing for the space security course planned for this summer. Our discussions were instructional and genuinely collaborative, as we also divided tasks for the upcoming presentation of the space security course. Such planning sessions underscore the rigorous academic mentorship DKI APCSS fosters, guiding and shaping future security experts.
Presenting Space Security: Challenges and Norms
The core of my week was the space security elective, where I had the honor of presenting alongside Dr. Oehlers. Addressing about 35 course participants, I discussed the hostile environment of space, the surge in space launches in recent years, and the critical risks associated with space debris. The discourse extended to the crucial role of space norms, as I focused on initiatives like the Artemis Accords, which aim to foster international cooperation in space exploration.
The response was overwhelmingly positive. The Q&A session that followed our presentation turned into a dynamic and intellectually rich exchange, highlighting the keen interest and engagement of the participants. Their questions were insightful and indicative of a growing awareness of the complexities and necessities of space security. As a token of appreciation and to add a touch of fun, I distributed NASA stickers, which were received with the same enthusiasm one might expect from a group of delighted schoolchildren.
Cultural Exchange and Networking Opportunities
My stay in Honolulu was also marked by several noteworthy events that underscored the diverse and inclusive nature of DKI APCSS. I attended a U.S. Navy promotion ceremony, celebrated the U.S. Army’s 249th anniversary, and participated in the “Taste of the World” event. This last event was particularly memorable, as fellows from the Comprehensive Security Cooperation course shared dishes and traditions from various countries across the Indo-Pacific, offering a taste of their rich cultural heritage.
DKI APCSS Taste of the World
Another significant meeting during my visit was with Dr. James Minnich, the volume editor commemorating the Center’s 30th anniversary. We discussed my contribution to the upcoming volume, “Security Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific,” specifically my chapter on New Zealand’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This discussion reinforced my academic focus and connected my work with broader, real-world applications.
Reflecting on a Transformative Experience
As a doctoral student deeply invested in global security, I found the opportunity to interact, present, and learn at DKI APCSS invaluable. This experience has enriched my understanding, expanded my network, and sharpened my focus on the pressing issues of today’s and tomorrow’s security landscape.
While I will continue working remotely on my space security course development project, being physically present at the DKI APCSS provided my academic journey with a unique and enriching dimension. The connections made, knowledge gained, and memories created during this week in Honolulu will undoubtedly influence my future endeavors in global security.
PS: Memorable Encounters and Local Delights
During my stay in Waikiki, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting with my dissertation committee chair, Dr. Melissa Schnyder. We discussed my research proposal over coffee at Liliha Bakery, indulging in their world-famous coco puffs—a delightful treat that made our serious academic discussion a little sweeter. I am incredibly fortunate to have such a supportive and insightful leader guiding my work. Her feedback and encouragement are pivotal as I navigate the complexities of my doctoral journey.
On my last day on Oahu, I revisited a favorite spot—the Dole Plantation.
There is something truly special about enjoying Dole soft serve and fresh
pineapple in the lush surroundings of the plantation. This visit was not just a
treat for the palate but also a moment of relaxation and reflection, a perfect
end to a week full of intellectual stimulation and cultural experiences. This
blend of professional growth and personal enjoyment made my trip to Honolulu an
unforgettable chapter in my academic and personal life.
