By Nichole Hotzler, 2025 Emerging Leader and Youth Ambassador at Expo 2025 Osaka
Editor’s note: Nichole Hotzler is an alumna of the 2025 Global Ties U.S. Emerging Leaders Program and former intern with Iowa International Center. Nichole is currently serving as a Youth Ambassador at the U.S. Pavillion at Expo 2025 Osaka. We spoke with Nichole about her experience as an Emerging Leader and how her engagement with the Global Ties Network contributed to her professional growth.
You’re serving as a Youth Ambassador at the U.S. Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. What inspired you to apply for this position? What does it mean to you to be a “face of America” to all who visit the pavilion?
Hannah Huisman, my former supervisor at Iowa International Center, encouraged me to apply to be a Youth Ambassador because she knew of my previous experience with the Japanese language. I would never have been aware of the opportunity if it were not for her! Being the “face of America” to thousands of visitors each day can be daunting. Every interaction matters because that interaction might shape someone’s view of the United States. I take this responsibility quite seriously because it is the most profound example of citizen diplomacy that I have ever experienced.
How has community service shaped your professional growth?
Community service has provided me with valuable connections, knowledge about my community, and the confidence to lead and take on challenges. It also often has fewer barriers to entry as you work to develop your skills. In the past, I felt too young or inexperienced to apply for opportunities. However, through my responsibilities and encouragement with community leaders, I feel increasingly confident in a professional environment. Community service is a great place to start building your resume and experience, while engaging with your community.
As you look back on your experiences with the Global Ties Network, what have been the most valuable skills or insights you’ve gained?
My experiences have made me realize how important connections are in having a fulfilling career. During my time at Iowa International Center, I enjoyed every day of work because of the close-knit community in which I felt a personal connection to each project that I worked on. If you love where you work, care about the work you are doing, and can see the impact you have directly, this career path can be very fulfilling; I’m lucky to have found it!
What is it about exchange programs and the Global Ties Network in particular that inspires you? Why do you think exchange matters?
Exchange programs, and the Global Ties Network, are inspiring because they demonstrate that although people come from different countries and have entirely different upbringings, we always have things that bring us together. Whether it be policy issues, business industries, or shared hobbies, exchange programs are an opportunity for bonding and collaboration. Each interaction has the opportunity to create a ripple effect of positive relations between people and communities as well as nations.
Any final thoughts for someone considering an exchange program for the first time or considering a diplomacy-focused career?
In my opinion, the only things necessary for enjoying an exchange are to keep an open mind and have a passion to learn. You do not need to already know a language or another culture to participate and gain something from exchange programs. Exchange can start at home, too. If you are interested in staying local, find cultural events in your neighborhood to attend or volunteer in your community. My advice to anyone, be it an aspiring exchange participant or young professional, is do not believe you are not enough for anything—always try for the opportunities you want. You’ll often be positively surprised by the results!