BSD Hosts Iraqi Intern as Part of State Department Exchange

Over the past year, Blue State Digital has expanded its reach into countries across the globe, running dozens of engagements in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Ireland, Brazil, Mexico, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Iraq and Kenya. And sometimes, the reach happens in both directions. We're proud to announce that for the next 12 weeks, Blue State's Boston office will be hosting Alaa, an Iraqi citizen who has worked, studied, and taught in Baghdad, Cairo, and Dubai over the past decade.

A computer scientist and information technologist, Alaa is one of six interns participating in the inaugural session of the State Department's Iraq Information Technology Intern Exchange Program. The program is intended to help Iraq develop the IT and entrepreneurial skills needed to rebuild its tech sector. Other participating companies include AT&T, Howcast, Mercy Corps, and Engine Yard. The Iraqi interns will also have the opportunity to meet with U.S. government officials, visit universities such as Berkeley and Stanford, and experience the inner workings of Google, Twitter, and other leading tech companies.

BSD is honored to host Alaa and be a part of this historic exchange. We also hope he packed a warm winter coat.