Sheila Garcia
Online Learning Librarian at the University of California in Santa Cruz
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
Christopher Hoff
Assistant General Counsel, Microsoft
Kimberly McKenzie
Assistant to U.S. Supreme Court Justice
Jordan (Crandell) Baah Sackey
Program Manager for Jobs for the Future (JFF).
Kendall Souders
Senior Functional Analyst, Department of Health and Human Services for General Dynamics Information Technology.
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
Non-Profit Volunteer & Internship Fair
September 10, 2026 1:00 PM
Looking to Make a Difference or Gain Real-World Experience? Explore dozens of meaningful volunteer and internship opportunities at the Non-Profit Volunteer and Internship Fair at KIRKHOF CENTER NORTH...
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...