Nadine Elsayed '18 Executive & Brand Communications Manager at Adobe
What can I do with a Global Studies major?
There is a world of possibilities. Really.
Studies show that employers increasingly emphasize their desire to hire employees who have skills such as critical thinking and communication — hallmarks of a Global Studies curriculum — above technical aptitudes or qualifications. Current employers are looking for people who are empowered to negotiate a globalizing workplace. They remark that, “We need people who are good managers, who are cross-culturally competent.” (Bureau of Labor Statistics 2017)
An interdisciplinary degree shows a wide range of potential employers that you can synthesize and analyze different ways of knowing to arrive at creative solutions. Engaging in experiences like Study Abroad and International Internships demonstrates to employers the ability to adapt to new and challenging situations and work with people from diverse backgrounds.
Students also have the ability to customize their GS major by choosing which foreign language to pursue, or by taking more course to gain training in areas like data analysis, media literacy, or policy, thereby improving their appeal to different types of employers in the global marketplace.
Global Studies majors have a solid knowledge base of current global issues and develop specific skills that are applicable to lots of different careers. These skills include:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Cross-cultural knowledge and understanding
- Critical thinking and creative problem-solving
- Ability to formulate clear and persuasive messages
- Listening, clarifying, questioning and responding skills
- Ability to work well independently and collaboratively
- Deep understanding of the institutions and processes that shape the world
Here at Lehigh, the Global Studies program takes an active role in preparing students for post-graduation opportunities. For example, GS students receive training on job searching, resume-writing, networking, interviewing, and negotiating job offers. Throughout their time at Lehigh, GS students have the opportunity to explore possibilities in career paths they might not otherwise know about or have considered. In particular, the GS program works to connect GS alumni to current students and hosts a GS career panel with recent alumni each spring semester. Hear directly from our Global Studies Alumni at our recent Career Panel, click here...
Our graduates have pursued a broad range of professions, including careers in international organizations, global marketing, public health, sustainable development, transnational project management, foreign policy, education, global media, the arts, technology, and law. Many graduates have also gone on to graduate study in a variety of fields, such as anthropology, political science, environmental science, and social work.
Sample of Recent Hiring Employers of 2016-2022 GS Majors