I really need advice!!

Applying to College
1

<p>Hello guys,</p>

<p>I am a current college student, Freshman.</p>

<p>I have been fortunate enough to have options when it comes to gaining experience and making my self more marketable.</p>

<p>Option #1</p>

<p>Student Position at BSIS (Bureau of Security and Investigative Service)
I would do a lot of remedial work, I.E Look over case files, input data into a tracking system, create statistical reports, correct rap sheets.</p>

<p>Option #2
Attend the SLI program through the CSU system
(Strategic Language Initiative)
I applied to this program for the Russian language, I do speak fluently, but I would like to read and write better, and understand the politics and history more.
This program would give me the opportunity to work on a year long project about a certain aspect of Russia and present it to a panel of professors, my work would also be published. (Politics, Economy, etc)
After completion I would receive a diploma from Moscow State University of Humanities</p>

<p>My current major is International Business.</p>

<p>I am looking into switching my major to International Relations, lately I have had developed a growing interest in politics and government in general.</p>

<p>Should I work at BSIS or should I take part in the SLI program?</p>

<p>The issue is, the BSIS job needs to be funded and I have to wait a whole month before I find out if I officially can have the job, although currently they have offered me the job with the hope that the job will be funded.</p>

<p>The SLI program director needs an answer from me within a WEEK.</p>

<p>So im caught in the middle and not sure if I should wait for something that MAY not be there, or just go ahead and participate in the SLI program...</p>

<p>Both programs are very competitive...its a tough decision for me.</p>

2

<p>The problem with International Studies/Relations degrees is that they don’t provide a unique skill. A language would undoubtedly help you, but Russian is becoming a more traditional language for college students. Try Georgian!</p>

<p>I would say, stick with International Business and keep up with politics on your own time. If you’re interested in a career in the academic field, do the Russian project. If you intend to do anything with the government, do BSIS.</p>

3

<p>Congrats on getting an offer from SLI. You should evaluate it independently since you can’t count on the other program. Frankly it sounds like a longshot from your description. Go with the offer you have in hand.</p>

4

<p>Learn Russian. You can work for the CIA.</p>

5

<p>Thanks guys.</p>

<p>The offer from BSIS is conditional so I will be going with SLI</p>

<p>SLI will end July 22nd and BSIS will start in August if it will be able to be funded…</p>

<p>SO I can do both :)</p>

<p>I am fluent in Russian, I just want formal education and something to show employers that I have actually studied it and know and understand Russian culture. </p>

<ul>
<li>Do you know how competitive SLI is?</li>
</ul>