Name: Mandy Schnakenberg
Major/Minor: Global Studies Major with Minors in Human Rights/Humanitarian Affairs, and History
Year at UNL: Senior
Why Global Studies? Global Studies is an amazing program of study because it's incredibly important to be globally-conscious in today's increasingly globalized society, plus I enjoy the fact that it allows me to study a region and themes which interest me personally. I've taken some amazing courses, but I found History of the Holocaust the most interesting because it taught me larger lessons about what it means to be a "bystander" in the face of atrocities around the world (plus it inspired me to add both of my minors). I would advise new Global Studies majors to study abroad early if possible, because the classes may inspire you to go abroad again. Plus, don't be afraid to be a bit of a tourist while abroad- you're there to study, but be sure to experience the culture, the foods, the friends, take lots of pictures, and have the time of your life!
My Study Abroad Experience: I studied abroad in Turkey and in Berlin, Germany. Since it was more recent, I'll speak about my time in Germany. I took a semi-intensive language course, plus a course entitled "Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue in Germany". This was one of the best courses I've ever taken- each week, we visited sites such as the Jewish Museum Berlin and the German History museum to learn about how those from different religions and cultures were represented, then we compared our interpretations with students from around the world. Even though I was only there for a month, we traveled every weekend, so I also saw London, Dresden, Prague, and Munich, plus I made some great friends from all around the world!
Post-Graduation Plans: After graduation, I would like to work in NGO, preferably one focused on human rights. Some day, I would also like to participate in the JET Program in Japan.