HARRIS MYLONAS
Associate Professor of Political Science and International Affairs,
George Washington University Elliott School of International Affairs

^{2001–2002 Fulbright Greek Graduate Student Program to the U.S. Host: University of Chicago, Department of Political Science, Illinois}

International Affairs refers to the study of (violent and non-violent) interactions among governments, international governmental (IOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), as well as multinational corporations.

International affairs focus on the origins, form, and consequences of conflict and cooperation among states in both security and economic affairs. Undergraduate students get introduced to these age-old questions and the various theories that help us make sense of the world. But the field has expanded (and got fragmented), and this is reflected in the proliferation of specialized graduate programs. At the graduate level there is a wide range of concentrations, from conflict resolution and negotiation techniques to international humanitarian law, environmental policy and sustainability, or public health crises. Other programs focus on technological innovations, trade policies and agreements, international economic relations, development studies, or the impact of globalization on economies. Yet others are focusing on public diplomacy.

Becoming an International Affairs professional begins with an education and moves through gaining experience and skills through practice. A wide range of bachelor’s degrees can serve as a foundation from Political Science or Economics to Engineering or Statistics. A Master’s specialization is often key though since most jobs require more advanced skills than what students acquire as undergraduates. Proficiency in foreign languages is an asset, especially when one wants to work in IOs or NGOs. Internships, attending conferences and related events, provide practical experience and help with building a network in a particular field. Keeping up-to-date with current event and global trends is also key.

Career prospects include government agencies, diplomatic missions, as well as IOs or NGOs working on international development, human rights, humanitarian aid, or environmental issues. But a career in international business is also a prospect through employment in multinational corporations, consulting firms or risk management firms. Think Tanks, research institutes, and/or advocacy groups routinely hire international affairs experts to conduct policy analysis on a wide range of issues. Finally, given how globalized our world has become, a background in International Affairs is a great foundation to become journalist, either as a correspondent or an analyst.

 ^{_{Photo Credit: Kyle Glenn for Unsplash}}