<p>Now that I've applied to schools including Stanford, Pomona, and Berkeley as a prospective political science major, I'm wondering: what am I looking for?</p>
<p>I like to think that I'm being ambitious because I want to learn as much as I can and contribute my talents to society, but is that really the case? Or am I just insecure and looking for an ego boost?</p>
<p>Those are supposed to be rhetorical...now for my real questions. How can I best serve the underprivileged and bring about justice? Public interest lawyer? "Community organizer"? Diplomat, ambassador?</p>
<p>I really know nothing about the realities of these jobs, or which of these (and any similar) are helpful to people. Also, what majors are best for pursuing an interest in community service and social progress? I just want to attend a school/program that will help me most in inspiring change and practical, beneficial work.</p>
<p>I searched for threads about "public service" but couldn't seem to find anything specific. If this has been discussed somewhere else, let me know.</p>
<p>I can be a bit romantic and esoteric (hence my screen name), so sorry about any confusion or whatever. If anyone has input I would really appreciate it. Thanks!</p>
<p>First of all, interesting user name. I’m curious why it is “random” philosophy…</p>
<p>In terms of majors related to community organizing, etc, there are some schools that actually have majors that are just that. I would advice, though, that you study something related, perhaps political science as you’ve stated. But, for instance, if you want to be a diplomat, maybe international relations would be something better suited. Or if you want to help locals get housing, you could study real estate, or do their taxes accounting. You see the pattern. Study something that will make you a better individual and worker, not something that you think will transform you into this person with a certain job title.</p>
<p>I guess the “Random” part refers to a tendency to philosophize at odd or uncalled for times…also just occasional pointless musing about different aspects of the world.</p>
<p>Interesting idea to focus on specific fields. I hadn’t thought of something like real estate, since I usual associate that with pure business. But I see what you mean. Thanks for the thoughts.</p>
<p>Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy & Administration.</p>
<p>Most popular graduate degrees would be a law degree or major in IR or PPA in my opinion. </p>
<p>Honestly though, if you want to do good in your community and change lives, it doesn’t take a degree at all. It just seems motivation and a willing to get out there and volunteer and if people see that you are a good person, you will network and become involved and find a role in your community.</p>