Name: Drew Miller
Majors in Global Studies and Political Science, Minors in Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs, History
Hometown: Lincoln, NE
Year at UNL: Senior
I chose global studies because students can take a variety of interdisciplinary courses that set them apart from other standard majors. The major requires students to flex their critical thinking muscles regarding the world around them and how they play a part in it. Some of my most favorite classes have been history courses, namely HIST 339 (History of the Holocaust) and HIST 445 (History of the American Civil War and Reconstruction). Additionally, political theory (POLS 383, 384) and international relations courses (POLS 270, 280, and 479) refined my knowledge on the foundations of political thought and global policymaking.
My biggest suggestion to Global Studies majors is to follow the professors you learn best from and take as many of their courses as possible. Additionally, study abroad early and apply for as many scholarships as possible. Study abroads do not have to break the bank, there are countless programs that provide full-rides or at least significant scholarships. Finally, buy the books for class, if possible, (do not rent) and actually read them. Start a small library in your room now, because those books will come into use later in your studies as well as later on in life.
I studied abroad in India in 2014 for three weeks studying critical issues facing India and the world, such as water and food security, poverty, and environmental sustainability. India was a huge leap for me as my first time out of the country. We traveled throughout the country, from the crowded city of Mumbai to the rural village of Jalgaon, allowing us to meet and learn with a variety of Indians. As an amateur photographer, India was perfect for capturing the most fascinating, as well as strangest sights, such as small families packed on motorcycles and banana pickers in the fields. Study abroad to places out of your comfort zone, you will not regret it.
After graduation, I will attend a two week fellowship in Prague, Czech Republic (or whatever it is called now) with the Vaclav Havel Library Foundation, where I will work on a human rights advocacy project alongside the foundation. After spending a few more weeks in Europe, I will return back to Lincoln to continue my work as a refugee resettlement case manager at Catholic Social Services. Additionally, I will continue directing Lincoln Friends of Refugees, a volunteer program designed to create relationships between college students and newly arriving refugee families. If you are interested, please check out our Facebook page - Lincoln Friends of Refugees - or email me at dmiller@cssisus.org.