This course will be held in Cluj and Sibiu, Romania, with a focus on history and contemporary politics in Eastern Europe. The course begins with historical background, followed by an exploration of post-communist political dynamics. It covers the transition from one-party rule, debates about EU and NATO membership, energy security, and the threat of Russian aggression. Discussions will be complemented by meetings with local policy experts and guest academics. Students will also receive language instruction twice a week. The course includes excursions to the Romanian capital, Bucharest, and a trip to the Danube Delta.

In policy seminars students work in groups first formulating the general problem, then engaging in individual research on subtopics, and finally presenting their inferences for discussion and debate and producing a collective policy report.

The Extramural Summer research project is designed in conjunction with the student's advisor and either a non governmental organization (NGO), multilateral organization, or government agency that will provide practical experience relevant to the student's dissertation/research area. Start date no earlier than June 1. A final written report explaining how the internship informed your dissertation research will be due at the conclusion of the course, and before the start of Fall Term classes.

This course is limited to students participating in the Scholars in the Nation's Service Initiative (SINSI) or an approved MPA middle year out. Enrolled students participate in one or more internships with a federal, state, or local government agency, non-governmental organization, or multilateral institution in the U.S. or overseas. The purpose is to provide a learning environment for students to use/develop quantitative and qualitative analytical skills in an active public policy setting, with oversight from Princeton University faculty and staff.