Serviam Institute Simulation Experiences
The SIIS Simulation Experience
The SIIS Simulation Experience reflects experiential learning at its best. These exercises move students beyond passive learning and into demanding, real-time environments where they must think strategically, act under pressure, and defend their decisions. Held twice each semester on Saturdays and often involving 30 to 40 students, these eight-hour, nonstop exercises prepare participants to make difficult choices, defend their judgment, and lead when certainty is impossible. Even meals are folded into the experience, with pizza delivered as the simulation continues. Rather than simply listening to experts or producing written analysis, students are placed in situations that require them to think, decide, and lead under pressure. The result is an education that prepares students not only to understand the world, but to operate in it.
Student Fellow – Wargaming and Simulation R&D
The Student Fellow supports the research, design, and execution of policy-focused wargames and simulations on international security and foreign policy issues. This role combines analytical research with hands-on scenario design and live simulation support.
Responsibilities include:
- Assisting with scenario design, timelines, injects, and role briefs
- Conducting background research to support simulation realism and policy relevance
- Supporting playtesting, facilitation, and note-taking during exercises
- Helping analyze outcomes and draft lessons-learned memos
- Collaborating with researchers and fellows across teams
The student fellows for 2026 are Joseph Brennan, Cameron Bird, Liam Knotek, and Megan Hay.