Ecaterina Locoman is from Moldova, born in Pepeni, a picturesque village in the northern part of the country. She completed her undergraduate studies in Chisinau, at Moldova State University, majoring in Journalism and Communication Studies.  At IES, she studied a Master's degree in Economics and Finance, which she completed in 2011. She then joined Rutgers University, the State University of New Jersey, where she received her PhD in Political Science.

She is the Senior Lecturer in International Studies at the Lauder Institute, University of Pennsylvania. She teaches in the Global Program with a focus on international relations and comparative politics. She also conducts research on the politics of the former Communist states in Europe.

Prior to Lauder, she was a Lecturer in the M.A. Program in United Nations and Global Policy Studies at Rutgers University. Ecaterina also served as the Program Director of the Undergraduate Exchange Program between Rutgers University and Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, Japan.

When living in Prague, she also worked as a journalist for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, covering a wide array of issues, including migration, human trafficking, taxation, and foreign policy.

In her free time, Ecaterina enjoys reading non-fiction books, taking long nature walks, and spending time with her two little, energetic children.

Ecaterina, you studied the MEF program at  the IES. What was the most difficult thing for you when transferring from your university in Moldova and what did you like most about the Czech programme?

Transitioning to a curriculum heavy in math, econometrics, and statistics presented a challenge, coming from a journalism background in Moldova. Moving from the world of journalism to enrolling in the MEF program at IES required a considerable shift in my academic focus. Nevertheless, I was deeply grateful for the support from faculty members, especially Jiri Novak, and the camaraderie with international peers from Moldova, Albania, and other countries. My prior stint as an exchange student in the United States, where I also studied Journalism, had somewhat prepared me for studying abroad. The familiarity with international academia was a plus. The Czech program impressed me with its academic thoroughness. It was well-structured, featuring explicit guidelines and clear expectations. The faculty's dedication to fostering student success was apparent and highly supportive, which I believe was crucial for our academic accomplishments.

What advice would you give to students coming up to the Master's cycle at the IES, is there anything that in retrospect would have helped you a lot if you had known before?

I recommend approaching the Master's program at IES with dedication. Make it a priority to attend every class and prepare diligently for each exam. The intensity of the program demands commitment, but by being present, taking detailed notes, and studying effectively, success is truly within reach. Reflecting on my experience, the initial semester was particularly demanding, the first set of midterms even more so. However, perseverance and focus were key in navigating these challenges and laying a strong foundation for subsequent semesters. Also, don't underestimate the importance of self-care and rest. Prague offers a plethora of enriching experiences; embrace them. Cultivate a supportive community around you—it's an invaluable asset. I wish prospective students in the program the best in their academic journey and future pursuits!

You are from Moldova, how did you acclimatise to the Czech Republic and then the US, did you experience any culture shocks or did everything go quite smoothly?

Settling into life in the Czech Republic was a delightful experience. Prague captivated me with its lush parks, efficient public transport, and vibrant restaurant scene. Exploring the eateries and cafes of Praha 6, where our dormitories were situated, was a treat. In comparison to my initial study abroad in the US, where we were paired with host families and integrated with American students, I found it more challenging to forge connections with Czech students in Prague. It wasn't clear if this was due to cultural differences, but we tended to socialize more with fellow international students. Despite this, I cherished the city's beauty—from its parks to its historic landmarks. I do wish there had been more opportunities to interact closely with Czech students, to enrich our cultural exchange. Nonetheless, the charm and sights of Prague made my stay there unforgettable.

How was the doctoral studies in the US? Was it demanding or could you manage with some part-time work?

My doctoral studies in the US were intensive, yet the rigorous MEF program at IES in Prague had set a solid foundation for me. American doctoral programs are exceptionally structured, beginning with two years of comprehensive study that essentially equates to a Master's in the chosen discipline. This period is critical for mastering the foundational theories and research in the field. The subsequent comprehensive exams are a testament to your academic prowess, assessing your grasp of these theories. During these initial years, the commitment required is akin to a full-time job, leaving little room for part-time work. However, upon passing these exams, I was able to balance my research with a teaching assistant role at the university, which added a valuable dimension to my doctoral journey.

Your career has been really varied, from being a presenter and contributor to Radio Free Europe to becoming a lecturer at an American university. Can you briefly describe your career development?

My career path has been diverse and fulfilling. It began with a BA in Journalism, which led to a role at Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty in Moldova. My journey continued as a Media Outreach Specialist for a USAID-funded initiative, focusing on Moldova's economic and business landscape. With a growing interest in economics and communication, I pursued studies in Economics and Finance in Prague. This was a stepping stone to a PhD in Political Science, driven by my desire to intertwine economic principles with political communication and gain a deeper understanding of political dynamics, particularly in post-Communist European countries. Currently, I serve as a Senior Lecturer in International Studies at the Lauder Institute, University of Pennsylvania, where I integrate my experiences as a journalist, economist, and political scientist into both my teaching and research. It's rewarding to merge these disciplines, enriching my academic contributions and providing a multifaceted perspective to students.

What do you focus on in your work, do you currently have any research in progress?

In my role as an instructor, I delve into the core theories and concepts that shape the international world order within international studies courses. Part of my current research is focused on dissecting strategic media narratives, with a project examining how Russian state media frames Russia, Ukraine, and the West, both before and after the recent conflicts in Ukraine. Additionally, I'm investigating the varied foreign policy directions taken by post-Communist states in the aftermath of the Cold War, seeking to understand the factors that guide these divergent paths.

How do you spend your free time? What do you enjoy?

In my leisure time, I have a passion for immersing myself in non-fiction literature, which provides a deep dive into various realities and enriches my understanding of the world. Travel holds a special place in my heart as well; I cherish the experience of exploring new destinations and the unique cultures they offer. Additionally, I find solace in the tranquility of nature, frequently seeking out serene parks and natural wonders that allow for moments of reflection and rejuvenation.