IDS/ International Studies FAQ 

• What kind of students does IDS/IS seeks?
• International Students
• American students with strong international backgrounds
• Mature students with leadership aspirations

• What makes IDS/IS distinctive?
• It is problem-oriented rather than discipline-oriented
• Language skills are mandatory
• Students have to write a capstone thesis or Honor thesis

• Where do some IDS/IS graduates work/study?
• Work in : Africa, Europe, Latin America, East Asia, South Asia
• Work for: State Department, NGOs, Peace Corps, private companies, universities
• Graduate study: UoA, Princeton, Georgetown, Harvard, John Hopkins, Monterrey, Michigan, LSE, SOAS, Sussex, various law schools and business schools

• What is IDS/IS record in nationally competitive fellowships competition?
• 9 Fulbright Scholars
• 2 Truman Scholars
• 20+ Boren/NSEP Scholars
• 2 Rhodes Scholar finalists
• 1 British Marshall Scholar
• 2 Freeman Asia Scholars

• Why is IDS/IS a good program to prepare for leadership?
• It is a customized, focused, interdisciplinary program
• Course selection is tied to the professional goals
• IDS/IS students help design their own program. This brings a sense of ownership, responsible professionalism, high motivation and focused ambitions.

• How big is IDS/IS?
• It is small; we are a close-knit group of dedicated people
• IDS/IS is advising-intensive with guidance provided by faculty mentors with different backgrounds and expertise.

• How old is the program?
• Almost 10 years