Name: Tyler Matson
Major(s): Global Studies, Political Science, & Russian
Minor(s): National Security Studies & Economics
Hometown: Springfield, NE
Year at UNL: Sophomore
Favorite Book and Why?: A book I’ve recently come across is “Inside a U.S. Embassy.” I got the book from former Midwest Diplomat-in-Residence, Rob Andrew. I find it fascinating because it gives an authentic perspective of an environment I’d love to work in someday.
Favorite Movie and Why? Braveheart is always a classic. It reminds us to fearlessly and tirelessly fight for truth and justice in the world, no matter the costs.
Why Global Studies? I was inspired to study Global Studies during my junior year of high school. My small high school hosted a foreign exchange student from the Netherlands and she told me that they have required American history courses and she knew so many of our presidents. I knew next to nothing about the Netherlands when she told me this, but it inspired me to learn more about her country and many others! I think it’s important to see the world from multiple perspectives in order to truly understand our differences and similarities, and how they affect us.
Study Abroad Experience: I am currently studying abroad for the semester in Saint Petersburg, Russia through the School of Russian and Asian Studies (SRAS). It’s an intensive language program in addition to history, political, and cultural classes. Our program also offers many culturally-immersive experiences, such as: language partners, trips to Moscow and other Russian cities, museum tours, and more. I am also very blessed to be a recipient of the Gilman Scholarship’s Critical Need Language Award for this semester.
Post-Graduation Plans: After graduation, I hope to work my way up in the U.S. Department of State and eventually serve our great nation as a Foreign Service Officer.
More details at: http://www.sras.org/programs?utm_campaign=UNL_ENews&utm_medium=email&utm_source=news&utm_content=STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Tyler Matson