High School Courses for Future Political Science Major

Aspiring political science major right here! But I gotta ask, what are the essential high school courses I should take to pave my way in this field? Any other advice on what to focus on during these high school years would be great.

Great to see you're interested in the political science field! As a political science major, you'll want to develop a solid foundation across a variety of subjects. But first and foremost, try to take as many history, government, and social studies courses as your school offers. These subjects align well with the political science arena, helping you gain knowledge about various political systems, cultures, and historical events.

Taking courses like English or other literature-based courses can also prove beneficial. These classes can help improve your writing, critical thinking, and reading comprehension skills. This is crucial, as political science courses in college will require well-developed writing and analytical abilities. For example, you will be asked to write essays, analyze policies, or critique articles.

Foreign language classes are also recommended. In-depth knowledge of at least one additional language can set you apart, especially if you aim to work in international relations or diplomacy where communication with non-English speakers may be common.

Lastly, you may also consider courses related to statistics and economics. Understanding economic models and quantitative research methods can be beneficial, as political science often intersects with these subjects.

You can also look outside your school curriculum. Participate in clubs or organizations that allow you to get first-hand experience with governance, law, or public relations. Activities like debate club, model United Nations, student government, or mock trial can provide valuable hands-on experience.

Remember, these are just suggestions! High school is also a time to explore a wide range of courses and subjects. Political science is a broad field and many diverse college majors can lead to a career in the political realm. It's about finding the path that resonates with you the most.