James Calderon

About James Calderon

I am a graduate student at Columbia University as well as an aspiring political analyst, national security practitioner, and writer. My research focuses on comparative politics, international security, and political history, specializing in the Middle East and China. I also hold secondary interests in European affairs. My analysis and commentary have appeared in several outlets, including the German–Southeast Asian CPG, an initiative supported by the German Federal Foreign Office.In addition to my academic work, I’m actively involved in Democratic politics, contributing to public service and political campaigns. I have worked on several Democratic campaigns and served in the offices of Congressman Patrick Ryan and then-New York State Assemblywoman Patricia Fahy. Beyond this, I have also collaborated with bipartisan PACs such as the Alliance for American Leadership and former Rep. Adam Kinzinger\'s Country First. I am a native of New York State. Before Columbia, I completed my undergraduate studies at Marist University and attended Bethlehem Central High School in Delmar, NY. Outside of school and work, I enjoy the New York Mets, Premier League soccer, SEC football, folkstyle wrestling, movies, museums, and foreign languages. I am fluent in English and Spanish, with German being my third strongest language.My opinions are my own and do not represent my employer nor any organizations to which I belong or am affiliated.

Experience

1. Contributing Writer

   The Asia Cable

   May 2025 — Present · Washington, DC, US

   Focused on China-MENA relations & Asian security

Education

• Heriot-Watt University

  Visiting Student, German Language and Intercultural Studies

• Marist University

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, Political Science and Global Studies

• LTL Language School

  CLS Spark, Chinese Language and Culture

• Columbia University

  Master of International Affairs - MIA, International Security and Diplomacy