Texas Intelligence Academy

"TIA was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The lectures and discussions with professionals provided me with an in-depth and humanized understanding of the Intelligence Community. Site visits and living in the heart of DC created an engaging experience which helped me envision my own future in public service. I can’t think of a better way to learn about the IC!"

“Participating in the TIA was a unique experience. As a student in the TIA, I got first-hand access to experts in the field and learned about intelligence directly from leaders in the IC. In addition to the inspiring personalities we got to meet, the program is also supplemented by special access visits to various intel headquarters that are only possible through a program like this. I can’t recommend the experience enough!”

"TIA effectively packs an entire semester of learning into 10 days. The teaching staff and guest lecturers are masters of their craft, and I found in my fellow scholars a diverse cohort of likeminded students. I strongly recommend this experience to anyone interested in developing a lifelong understanding of the U.S. intelligence community."

"The TIA was such an outstanding experience! I would do it all again in a heartbeat. I can truly say I learned so much and had a ton of fun at the same time. The program provides the perfect balance of lectures and site visits, and we discovered something new every day. It was an incredible investment in my learning and truly intensified my interest in public service. I am so grateful that I was able to take part in such an enriching experience. Thank you so much to the TIA staff and lecturers for an amazing program!"

"The Texas Intelligence Academy was a fantastic experience for me. Before departure to D.C., I knew next to nothing about intelligence and was merely interested in the concept as a potential future career. In only ten short days, the wonderful guest lecturers, on-site professionals, and, of course, our supervisors from the UT system transformed that seed of interest into a wealth of knowledge, a deep passion for the intelligence community, and a love for the concept of analysis as a whole. I would recommend the TIA to anyone who even has a passing interest in the realm of intelligence, as it will give you extremely valuable knowledge and experience that you will remember for a lifetime!"

"The TIA was a perfect balance of academic activities (through lectures, discussions and readings) and personal growth opportunities (staff-ride to Gettysburg, free time for museum visits, and time spent at monuments and memorials). This balance made the experience extremely enjoyable and fruitful. I was inspired by the presence of an extremely strong sense of selfless duty among all of the people who engaged in teaching in the TIA. All saw themselves as contributors to a goal that was larger and more noble than their own personal gain. Their desire for security, stability and justice was refreshing, and it certainly steered me more directly towards public service in this field or similar fields."

"TIA was one of the highlights of my college career. From touring the NSA to meeting with influential congressional leaders to discuss intelligence, the experience provided a comprehensive view of US intelligence, its history, and future. Kim, Prof. Slick, and Dr. Bolsinger put on a fantastic 10- day program with trips to Gettysburg and meetings with former senior intelligence officials. As former intelligence officers, I really enjoyed their perspectives and would highly recommend TIA to anyone interested in learning more about the IC and its mission."

"The TIA was a humbling experience. Attending lectures and engaging with practitioners of intelligence revealed the level of dedication, patriotism and selfless service that contributed to each individual's exceptional career in the IC. These experiences and conversations reinforced my view that serving in the IC and in public service is a lifestyle commitment that is uniquely challenging and rewarding. Two words to describe the TIA: Exhilarating and inspiring."

"My time with the TIA was a great benefit to my future career goals, as well as my education. Being submerged in an intensive academic environment with highly accomplished professionals and fellow students is a nurturing experience for those who aim for a career in intelligence."

"This program was a 'once in a lifetime' experience. Even if intelligence is only something you think you are interested in, this program will broaden your horizons and may even convince you to consider a career in this government work. I had not considered the IC as a possible career path, but after the TIA I have decided to try and apply to several agencies."

"The finest foray imaginable into the realm of intelligence. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to any student of interest—regardless of your mastery of this field. It will lend a profound perspective to the honorable work of intelligence practitioners and policy experts (sometimes operating in unison) to protect American interests and safeguard liberty. And once completed, it may even impel you to consider devoting yourself wholly to this line of work, as it has certainly pushed me to."

"My ten days in Washington DC with TIA transformed my understanding of intelligence as an institution, process, and potential career. The opportunity to engage with some of our nation's most distinguished intelligence practitioners and experts was a unique privilege, and the program helped me to forge a network of friends and mentors that will travel with me far beyond the Forty Acres. I strongly encourage any student interested in intelligence or national security to apply. TIA is truly a one-of-a-kind experience."