Jillian Zirnhelt
Peace Corps Fiji, IMF Researcher, now Ph.D. candidate in Economics at the University of Pittsburgh
Study Abroad
International Relations students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of GVSU's many study abroad opportunities.
Click here for our helpful Study Abroad Guide for IR
Also, check out GVSU's Padnos International Centers, an incredible resource for students contemplating study abroad.
The GVSU Political Science department has recently developed a GVSU Partnership Student Exchange program with two universities in Perugia, Italy, the sister city of Grand Rapids. Students are expected to have completed the equivalent of four semesters of Italian language to participate. Click here for a brochure.
Spotlights
Kendall Souders
Senior Functional Analyst, Department of Health and Human Services for General Dynamics Information Technology.
Jasmine Caldwell
Social Security Administration, Chicago
Katrina (Maynes) Strong
HR Transformation Senior Consultant at Deloitte Consulting.
Brendan Sawyer
Studying at Wayne State Law School
News
Robach attends the National Conference of the World Affairs Council as a Student Scholar
Olivia Robach (PLS and IR double major) earned a scholarship to join student scholars from around the US to attend the annual conference of the World Affairs Council in Washington, DC in November 2025.
Dec 3, 2025
Ozinga Starting Law School at Case Western
IR alum Kyla Ozinga is starting law school at Case Western
Sep 16, 2025
IR and PLS Alumni Starting Law School
PLS, IR and Human Rights alum Taylor Bessinger is attending the University of Illinois College of Law
Sep 12, 2025
Diven Honored with Award
Professor Polly Diven received the 2025 Hillman-Orr Award from the World Affairs Council of West Michigan.
Jun 23, 2025
Events
Virtual Information Session: Gilman Scholarship (competitive award for study abroad)
September 22, 2026 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
The Gilman deadline is approaching! Now is the time to craft, reflect and revise your essay drafts. This is a time for you to brainstorm content, outline and discuss. By...
Democracy 101: Voting Rights, Then and Now with the GVSU NAACP
September 23, 2026 6:00 PM
Explore the history and evolution of voting rights in the United States, from past struggles to today's challenges. Join the GVSU NAACP for an engaging discussion on the importance of protecting...
DEM 101: Elect Her with GVSU Student Senate and Running Start
October 8, 2026 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Learn what it takes to run for office and make an impact in your community. Join GVSU Student Senate and Running Start to explore women’s leadership in politics, campaign basics, and how you...
DEM 101: Election Issues Panel with GVSU Political Science Department
October 14, 2026 6:00 PM
Hear from GVSU political science faculty as they discuss key issues shaping today's elections. Gain nonpartisan insights, ask questions, and deepen your understanding of the topics influencing...
Make a Difference Day
October 17, 2026 8:00 AM
Make A Difference Day is an annual day of service where students are transported to local community non-profits to participate in service activities. Service activities range from cleaning up the properties...