ISS Student Spotlight | Amanda Vidimos
Tell us about your background and why you chose the ISS program.
I grew up in Arvada, Colorado, and relocated to Texas in 2012. I am a single mom of a seven-year-old daughter, and I am the second youngest of my six siblings. I served for six years as an Intelligence Analyst in the Army National Guard and gained additional experience working alongside Air Force Security Forces at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base in Houston, Texas. Currently, as an SIU Investigator with Allied Universal Compliance and Investigations, I conduct insurance claim investigations, audit cases, and ensure that any suspected or confirmed fraud is appropriately reported to the relevant state’s department of insurance.
In May 2023, I graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Arizona, earning a degree in Intelligence and Information Operations with an emphasis on Law Enforcement. Additionally, as part of the CAST program during my bachelor’s studies, I earned the Intelligence Community Centers for Academic Excellence scholar certificate. After having such a positive experience in my Bachelor’s program at the University of Arizona, I decided to pursue my Master’s degree in International Security Studies with the same institution. This field has always captivated me, and I am always looking for ways to continue advancing my expertise in this area.
Have you worked on any interesting projects or assignments during your studies?
During my studies, my focus in the ISS program has been on Intelligence and Cybersecurity, with several courses focusing on the Western Hemisphere. I had the opportunity to work on several compelling projects. One of the most challenging and rewarding was an independent research study conducted with two fellow students, researching how social media influences migrants' navigation of border policies. This project required thorough research into relevant policies, analysis of case studies, and data collection from multiple social media platforms. We analyzed over 2,000 social media posts to assess their accuracy in relation to existing policies and to understand the potential influence social media has on migrants' decision-making and comprehension of policy navigation. This project allowed me to further sharpen my research skills, particularly in policy and data analysis, data organization, and accuracy assessment.
What skills have you learned that you hope to use in your future career?
Through my studies, I have developed a broad range of skills that have deepened my understanding of security challenges while sharpening my analytical, strategic, and interdisciplinary abilities. This program has strengthened my ambition to pursue advanced roles in security and intelligence, particularly in areas requiring a nuanced understanding of global and ethical complexities. Although not directly related to my current role as an SIU Investigator, my academic experience has enhanced my capabilities in investigations, data analysis, and policy interpretation, enabling me to perform my duties with greater insight and effectiveness. While I enjoy being an SIU Investigator, it is not a role that I would like to stay in; I hope to use my education to move forward in my career. I plan to use my education to pursue a career in the field of security and/or intelligence.
What are you most proud of and what advice would you give to prospective students?
Reflecting on my journey, I am most proud of taking the leap to not only apply for the ISS program but also challenging myself to succeed in it while balancing full-time work and being a single mom. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m thrilled to say that, while several of my siblings have earned their Bachelor’s degrees, I’ll be the first among us to have earned a Master’s degree. My advice to prospective students is to fully embrace the challenge, as the skills and insights you gain are invaluable. Make the most of the program’s diverse course offerings, selecting classes that align with your career goals. Engage actively with professors and peers, as these connections offer valuable support, insights, and professional networking opportunities that will enhance your experience.