In today’s globalized world, problems like poverty, malnutrition, global warming, and terrorism aren’t just local issues. An Ebola outbreak in West Africa can affect health policies in the US, chronic poverty in Eritrea can create a migrant crisis in Italy, and a drought in California can shock global food prices. In many ways, the problems of one country now have worldwide consequences.
In order to tackle the complex issues our interconnected society faces, NGOs, governments and humanitarian organizations rely on professionals with a global perspective – and in some cases, a degree in International Affairs.
When it comes to understanding global policy-making, studying International Affairs in Rome gives students an advantage. Rome is an international hub of trade and diplomacy, and is home to some of the biggest humanitarian organizations in the world.
Students don’t just graduate with the expert knowledge they learned in class, they walk away with an enhanced sense of cultural awareness, new contacts from all over the world, and real-world experience through an internship.
Thinking about studying International Affairs in Italy so you can make a real difference in the world?
Here are four ways your degree can help you tackle some of the biggest challenges out there.
1. Help to End World Hunger by Working at an NGO
Rome hosts the headquarters of the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the World Food Programme, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN – some of the biggest organizations currently tackling world hunger and malnutrition.
As you study international affairs in Rome, you’ll become familiar with these organizations and the inspiring initiatives they lead all over the world. You may even have the opportunity to work at one of the food agencies as an intern.
2. Use your Degree in International Affairs to Advocate for Human Rights
If you’re passionate about social justice, working at Unicef, Save the Children, Amnesty International, or the UN Refugee Agency might be the perfect way to apply your degree in International Affairs. Each of these organizations has a branch in Rome, which you can visit while you study abroad in Italy. You may even get the chance to meet a representative in person at a JCU Career Fair.
Not sure what role you might take on as a protector of human rights? International Affairs grads fill various positions. They work as researchers, gathering data on human rights violations, help to carry out interventions in the field, and raise awareness as communications officers.
3. Find Diplomatic Solutions to Complex Problems
Changing the world doesn’t necessarily involve working at an NGO. In fact, many International Affairs graduates help promote peace, justice, and democracy while working for their government as a diplomat.
Careers in diplomacy are diverse, and have several different areas of specialization. You might get involved in local government, work your way onto a special task force, or play a part in peace-keeping initiatives overseas. Interning at an embassy could be a good place to start - something John Cabot University students have the opportunity to do while they study in Rome.
4. Continue Your Education and Work as an Environmental Lawyer
If you are an International Affairs grad who is passionate about the environment, going to law school and becoming an environmental lawyer could be an intuitive and enriching way to complement your undergraduate degree.
Because environmental problems are often linked with cultural practices, a B. A. in International Affairs may be helpful in understanding how different societal groups approach regulation, how policies are developed, and how to implement best practices in sustainability.
What other world-changing career paths inspire you to study International Affairs at a university in Italy?
