Juan Buhigas Palinkasev is a staff assistant at IFS, with a master’s in international Affairs Policy and Analysis concentrating in security and defense. Prior to joining IFS, Juan interned with Congressman Henry Cuellar’s office where he received a firsthand experience with the appropriations process. There he was also able to expand on his interests focusing on defense and homeland security as well as act as a translator for any Spanish speaking constituents in Texas’ 28th district.
At American University, Juan was able to take part in various courses in the defense field which include intelligence analysis, counterterrorism policy, and cybersecurity methods. His interests in this field originate from his time living in his Mother’s home country of Bosnia and Herzegovina where he witnessed the post conflict reconstruction of the Yugoslavian war. His studies in international affairs stem from his diverse background and ability to speak 4 different languages.