Brake

Brake Lands Job at Koch

Brake

We’re thrilled to share that Benjamin Brake, Collegiate, 2020, has recently joined Koch Industries as an International Trade Analyst in Wichita, Kansas. As part of the International Trade Capabilities (ITC) team within the Koch Legal Capability, the ITC group serves as a central resource for various Koch subsidiaries, addressing issues related to trade regulations, including import/export, sanctions, and Know Your Customer (KYC).

Some of his current projects include facilitating daily railcar shipments to Mexico, revamping protocols for controlled technologies (EAR, ITAR), and conducting research related to the UFLPA.

Benjamin shared, “I’m impressed by the work culture and commitment to innovation in my team and across Koch. It’s exciting to be part of a company embracing change in the 21st century while remaining grounded in shared values.”

Looking ahead, Benjamin is also applying to law schools with plans to pursue a JD starting in Fall 2025 to further specialize in international trade and investment law.

By Claudette Glenn, ago

Benjamin Brake joins Sijal Institute in trip to Jordan

Benjamin Brake joins Sijal Institute in trip to Jordan

Brake white

For the month of June, one of our scholars, Benjamin Brake has the exciting opportunity to utilize Timothy O’Shaughnessy’s scholarship to finance his trip to Jordan with Sijal Institute, a top-notch Arabic language program based in Jordan’s capital, Amman. After finishing his junior year, and prior to beginning his summer internship, Sijal will provide a truly immersive experience: language learning classes, as well as cultural orientation, all within Jordan’s sprawling capital. Coursework options include advanced formal language as well as local dialect training, as well as regular free time in the city.

 Ben has been studying the formal Arabic language for nearly three years now through Columbia’s Arabic language department. With many cousins and extended relations from Syria, he has long desired to study this challenging language and see how far he can take it.

 “All parties involved have been incredibly accommodating. I am especially grateful to the Timothy O’Shaughnessy Foundation for making this trip a reality. After a couple of years in a merely academic setting, and postponements due to Covid, I will now have the opportunity to put my studies to the test, all while expanding my cultural appreciation for a region of the world I have long hoped to explore.”

By Claudette Glenn, ago