Career Path and Early Interests

Chris Johnson's academic journey began with a focus on history and political science, a choice that seemed to suggest a career in law. However, after reconsidering his options, he decided to pursue graduate studies in security policy at George Washington University, aiming for a role in the intelligence and national security sector. A chance encounter at a career fair led him to apply for a position at the CIA, where he unexpectedly found himself drawn to the study of China, an area that was not widely explored at the time. Johnson's serendipitous entry into the field ultimately ignited a passion for Chinese politics and international relations that has defined his career.