Careers and Internships for Political Science??

<p>Im in high school and intrested in majoring in political science, government and international relations. I love politics and travel but what actual jobs are avaliable within those fields minus government of course. What types of internships, summer programs, or classes should I take in my limited capability as a high school sophmore?</p>

<p>Re: Your question about jobs—
The same types of jobs as other liberal arts major; also preparation for graduate, professional schools—law, journalism, public policy, business, etc. Also, check out the global careers website at UWisconson-Madison.</p>

<p>Re: Your question about internships, etc.
You’re still in high school so don’t put all your focus on one particular field in which you think you might wish to major. Students often change their majors several times, and presumably there are many new fields for you to discover once you get to college. </p>

<p>Having said that, relevant classes would be in government, history, languages, English (speech, writing), etc. but don’t slight the importance of science and math, too. Quantitative skills are important for research, and an understanding of sience enters into many current policy questions. </p>

<p>As for relevant internships, programs, etc.: community volunteer service, volunteering with political campaigns and social change organizations, debate/forensics, model UN, girls/boys state, travel/study abroad programs, student government, international/cultural clubs, Young Democrats/Young Republicans, etc. You may find many of these available as extracurricular activities at you school. Actually, participation in any activities that broaden your knowledge/awareness of social issues and differences, develop people skills, and provide leadership opportunities are valuable for future careers, whether or not those activities are directly related to a specific major or career path.</p>

<p>Excellent advice
Other career options include nongovernmental organizations active internaitonally (AIDS; Environment; etc)</p>

<p>As a high schooler, if you are interested in international relations (IR) and government, make sure that you are taking a foreign language. Most community colleges offer various languages - Spanish is useful, but Chinese and Arabic are in high demand. Summer courses at a community college can not only help you knock out college requirements - assuming the credits transfer - but language proficiency is also highly valued in government and IR positions, so stick with the language long enough to develop both written and spoken proficiency. </p>

<p>Look for a summer language immersion program - there are tons of summer programs out there. There are summer programs that combine language instruction with community service or scientific research projects. These are great for college apps and future govt/IR job apps! Look into foreign exchange programs, such as American Field Service (AFS) or Rotary. If you study German, there are Bundestag study programs.</p>

<p>Zapfino had excellent advice. Combine those with language proficiency, and you’ll be in good shape.</p>