Emily Brandwin

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What does every twenty-something out-of-work improv comedian do? Join the Central Intelligence Agency, of course. Emily Brandwin found a career in disguise and covert ops through the most unconventional route. While the CIA plucks Operations Officers from the military or the foreign service, Emily was the first spy to come from the Comedy Clubs of St. Louis, Missouri. She didn't speak a dozen languages or even harbor a burning desire to be a female James Bond. But Emily was different... very very different. It was those differences that made the CIA take notice and ultimately led to her success at the Agency. During Emily's keynote address, you'll hear her completely unique, outrageous, funny and inspiring story of how she became the CIA's most unlikely spy.

*Emily will be happy to host a post speech Q & A where students can ask questions about Emily's career, her experiences and the CIA.

From Comedy To Espionage: The Unbelievably True Story About Becoming a CIA Operative

Armed with a fresh outlook and a theater degree, Emily Brandwin was ready to conquer the world. She pounded the pavement and found less than impressive work performing improv comedy in dingy smoke-filled comedy clubs. Emily's mom (a spy fanatic) found a job ad for the CIA and made her daughter a deal: apply to the Agency and she can continue to live at home...rent free. Assuming she'd never get the job, Emily applied and much to everyone's surprise, was accepted into the CIA. Sound like a far fetched Hollywood script? It's not...it's the unbelievably true story about how Emily Brandwin went from improv comedy to being an Operative for the Central Intelligence Agency. With humor and insight, Emily will tell you her story that will leave you laughing and with a deeper understanding of how the most secretive agency in America operates.