Dr. Ben Buchanan is an SSP core faculty member, Director of External Education, and head of the Technology and Security concentration.
Where are you from and what path brought you to SSP?
I’m originally from New York City, came to Georgetown for my undergrad and masters (in SSP), and I’m thrilled to be back!
What is your favorite thing about SSP?
Without a doubt, the people.
If you could tell your grad school self one thing, what would it be?
“You’re going to be an academic.” Grad school me would have been very surprised.
If you could teach any course at all, what would that be?
AI and National Security, which I teach! Or Cyber Operations, which I also teach!
Would you rather fight 1 horse sized duck or 100 duck sized horses?
Whichever is easier to hack.
What is your favorite thing to do in DC?
Walk by the monuments and then eat at the restaurants.
What would your advice be to SSP students be hoping to start a career in your field?
You have to understand technology if you want to make good policy.