Studying International Relations in the US as a Future College Major

I'm a high school junior interested in international relations and I'm looking at US colleges. What are some top programs for international relations in the US, and what should I highlight in my application?

There is a plethora of renowned universities offering excellent International Relations programs in the U.S. which give you a breadth of expertise and unique research opportunities. Some notable ones include Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service, Johns Hopkins University (Johns Hopkins' School of Advanced International Studies), Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School, and Stanford University.

In your application, the admissions committee will want to see a clear demonstration of your interest in international relations. This can be your class choices (like AP World History or AP Government), related extracurricular activities (like Model United Nations or debate club), or personal experiences (like study abroad or language immersion programs).

It would also be helpful to mention any relevant work or volunteer experience and showcase your knowledge of current global events. For instance, if you've done an internship at a local political office, volunteered with a non-profit dealing with an international issue, or even if you're just an avid news consumer, talk about it.

When it comes to your essays, provide concrete examples of these experiences and, importantly, your reflections on them. If you've chosen to talk about a significant global event, express how it impacted you, and why it cemented your interest in international relations. Be sure to tie this in with the course offerings of the program and why it would be a good fit for your intellectual goals.

Lastly, don't forget your letters of recommendation. Ideally, have one from a teacher who can vouch for your interests in international relations, like a history or economics teacher.

Note: These are highly selective schools so in addition to these topical tips, you'll also need to meet high academic standards (GPA, SAT/ACT scores, etc.), but remember, demonstrating your passion for your intended major is a significant part of your application!

Bear in mind that every admissions process is unique, so it's crucial to thoroughly investigate each college's parameters. Good luck in the process!