This article is part of The Next Step series. While the four years at VMI are designed for cadets to push themselves academically, physically, and mentally to tackle the demands of life at a premiere military college, they also prepare cadets for life after graduation. Whether that life be one in the military or one in the private sector, VMI faculty and staff provide guidance to cadets along their journeys. One department specifically dedicated to that endeavor of post-Institute success is the Office of Career Services. In The Next Step series, we highlight cadets preparing to enter the workforce after graduation, as well as those still in the midst of their cadetship preparing for internships over the summer. 

LEXINGTON, Va. June 30, 2026 — National security and intelligence work has always fascinated Rachel Baez ’28. Now, she gets to apply that interest into gaining real world experience. 

The international studies major from Union, New Jersey, has accepted an internship with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) this summer. She will be serving as an intelligence analyst, contributing to the evaluation and interpretation of information relevant to national security. 

“The Department of Homeland Security stood out to me due to its critical role in protecting the United States and addressing complex security challenges,” she explained. 

Entering Virginia Military Institute, Baez’s goal was to build meaningful connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds while pursuing internship opportunities aligned with her interests.  

“I was particularly drawn to this opportunity because it offered valuable insight into government work, especially within the intelligence field,” she said. “I was eager to develop skills that would support my long-term professional aspirations.” 

Although she wasn’t directly assisted by VMI’s Office of Career Services in securing this internship, she said they played a valuable role in broadening her professional development. 

"They connected me with graduate school representatives and professionals in fields aligned with my academic interests, which helped inform my future goals,” she stated. 

VMI has not only prepared her for future challenges, but has also allowed her to gain opportunities like this internship. 

“I believe VMI’s reputation for developing disciplined, resilient, and capable leaders gave me a distinct advantage in the application process,” she said. “VMI has prepared me both mentally and physically for future challenges. The Institute has strengthened my discipline and resilience through its structured environment, while also teaching me how to balance academic, athletic, and military responsibilities. Additionally, VMI has provided valuable opportunities to connect with alumni and gain insight into life after graduation.” 

Those experiences at VMI have shaped her desire to serve. She’s planning on commissioning into the U.S. Army after graduating in a few years.  
 
“I am motivated to apply the skills and values I have developed to make a positive difference, particularly in protecting the people of the United States,” she commented.  

Looking toward the future, she sees herself working in a government role with an intelligence-focused agency or as a commissioned officer in the Army, working in an intelligence capacity. 

"I hope to continue developing as a leader and make meaningful contributions to national security,” she said.

Laura Peters Shapiro
Communications & Marketing
VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE