Bobby O'Keefe

• School of International Affairs

• B.S. INTA 2000

Bobby O'Keefe is a Ph.D. student in International Relations at American University's School of International Service who graduated from the Nunn School in 2000 with a degree in International Affairs. As a student, he was a rower with GT Crew, and this was perhaps the most formative experience of his undergrad experience. He commissioned in the Air Force from AFROTC Det 165 and continue to serve as an active-duty officer. He's had 14 different assignments, 4 deployments, 2 overseas tours (Tokyo, Japan, and Paris, France) and has spent his career first as a C-130 navigator and later a Foreign Area Officer.

How did Georgia Tech and/or the Nunn School help you get to where you are in your career?

My most memorable professor was Dr. John Endicott. He had completed a full Air Force career in intelligence, retiring as a colonel, before embarking on his academic career. As a result, he was able to associate real-world perspective and experience with the subject matter in the classroom. He was a model for me as I've progressed through my own military career.

What advice do you have for prospective or current students interested in pursuing your field of study? 

Be relevant. Academics are important to understand theoretical perspectives on reality. However, intellectualism is only as good as it impacts the real world.

Is there any other project/activity/accomplishment you would like us to highlight about your career? 

Upon completion of my PhD, I will join the faculty and academic leadership at the Air War College in Montgomery, Alabama.