Kristina Bray
Specialist in Pre-Series Steering at Scout Motors.
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
Aisha Espey
Associate Director for both the Global Trade Alert and Digital Policy Alert in Switzerland.
Samuel Yocca
Global Programs Advisor, Georgetown University
Shelly Greendyk
2018 Graduate Lands Job with DOD
Aing-On Thammarattananon
Assistant to Political Affairs, Royal Thai Embassy in D.C.
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
Fellowships Information Session: Planning to apply for the Gilman? Exploring Fulbright? Interested in the NSF Goldwater for students planning on graduate research in STEM? Curious about fellowship opportunities generally?
September 8, 2026 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Welcome! Join us to explore the world of nationally competitive fellowships.Planning to apply for the Gilman to help defray the cost of GVSU undergraduate study abroad? Exploring Fulbright or another...
Democracy 101: First Time Voter Workshop
September 9, 2026 6:00 PM
New to voting? Learn everything you need to know about registering, understanding the voting process, and casting your ballot with confidence. This beginner-friendly workshop is perfect for first-time...
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...
Virtual Information Session: Gilman Scholarship (competitive award for study abroad)
September 16, 2026 12:00 PM - 1:00 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...