International Studies Major Prepares to Make a Global Impact

One thing Jack Watson knows for certain is that he is going to build a career in the international arena.

The international studies major at the College of Charleston is fascinated by different cultures, languages and foreign policy. So, the International Scholars Program – a joint initiative of the School of Languages, Cultures and World Affairs; the International Studies Program; and the Honors College that focuses on developing students’ comprehensive understanding of global issues and international perspectives – was a natural fit.

“I liked the diversity of the students in the International Scholars Program,” says the Charleston Fellow and recipient of the Swanson Family Annual Scholarship. “During the interview session, I saw the other people interviewing and knew this was the right cohort to join. With so many interesting people, I knew the program would help me grow personally and professionally. I also liked that the cohort is only 10 students because I knew I would get personalized attention.”

The rising junior has embraced all the opportunities presented to him through the International Scholars Program as well as the Global Ambassadors Program, which focuses on international service. During the summer of 2022, Watson will intern with the U.S. Embassy in Bern, Switzerland, where he will focus on refugee migration. Afterwards, he will travel to Greece for his International Scholars cohort experience to learn about the Mediterranean.

In the fall of 2022, he will attend the University of La Rochelle in France to further hone his French skills. And in the spring of 2023, he will attend the American University in Cairo — something he’s been preparing for since his first year at CofC when he started studying Arabic.

Watson, who is from Newburgh, Indiana, was drawn to CofC after visiting two high school friends who attend the College. He was impressed by the course offerings and programs available to his friends, particularly language courses and courses focusing on international issues and cultures.

“I knew I wanted a small to medium school in a city with cultural events and an international focus,” says Watson. “CofC proved to be a great fit and my intimate glance at the College during interview weekend with the Honors College made my decision clear.”

Read the full story on Momentum, CofC’s digital philanthropy publication .