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What do I need to do for prepare my major/career?
What do I need to do for prepare my major/career?
Want to do economic and political science major
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4 answers
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey RL,
If this is what you have decided then I had say it's a great choice, just make sure it's what you want! Economics and political science are a powerful combo—perfect for careers in policy, government, finance, international relations, law, and even business. 🙌 So I am not gonna just give a big essay now 😅 I would get bored myself soooo here’s a step-by-step track record... I mean guide 🤔 Uhum, to prepare for your major and future career ofcourse!
Alright beginning, 🥸 Build a Strong Academic Foundation
📚 Take relevant high school courses
For Economics: AP/IB Economics, Statistics, Calculus, Business
For Political Science: Government, History, Sociology, Public Speaking
Develop Critical Thinking & Writing Skills why? Man, These majors require analyzing data, debating policies, and writing strong arguments
Take writing-intensive courses & practice forming logical arguments
Also, Gain Real-World Experience
First, Internships & Volunteering
Politics: Join a student government, volunteer for a campaign, intern for a local politician
Economics: Look for finance-related internships, research projects, or business clubs
Ensure to Stay Informed on Current Events
Read The Economist, Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Politico
Follow economic reports, political policies, and global affairs
Join Debate or Model UN
Great for improving public speaking & understanding policy
Next, Develop Technical & Research Skills
Learn Data Analysis & Coding
Economics uses statistics & programming (Python, R, Excel, Stata)
Take online courses in data analysis, game theory, or political statistics
Get Comfortable with Research Papers because, Both fields require reading academic papers, so start analyzing them early
Now now, What Can You Do with These Majors? 🤔
Economics: Data Analyst, Financial Consultant, Policy Advisor, Market Researcher
Political Science: Public Policy Analyst, Diplomat, Lawyer, Intelligence Analyst
Ahhh Grad School? Law School? MBA?
Many economics and poli-sci majors pursue law, public policy, business, or government careers
If you want to go into research or academia, consider a Master’s or PhD
Here is 2 of the best Network & Explore Opportunities you can do..... Ofcourse I do recommend to start.
Join Student Organizations
Economics clubs, political science associations, or honor societies
Attend guest lectures, career panels, and networking events
📝 Write & Publish Your Opinions
Start a blog or submit articles on political/economic issues
Build a LinkedIn profile & connect with professionals in your field, this is really important.... But... Also make sure you don't lose it.... Like me.... 😏.....
Well, Lastly man, Stay Open-Minded!
You’ll learn so much in college, and your interests may evolve. Explore both fields deeply, and don’t stress if you’re unsure about your exact career yet—just focus on building strong skills and experiences!
You got thisRL! Let me know if you need more guidance or even just a curiosity! 🤗 Good luck mate!
If this is what you have decided then I had say it's a great choice, just make sure it's what you want! Economics and political science are a powerful combo—perfect for careers in policy, government, finance, international relations, law, and even business. 🙌 So I am not gonna just give a big essay now 😅 I would get bored myself soooo here’s a step-by-step track record... I mean guide 🤔 Uhum, to prepare for your major and future career ofcourse!
Alright beginning, 🥸 Build a Strong Academic Foundation
📚 Take relevant high school courses
For Economics: AP/IB Economics, Statistics, Calculus, Business
For Political Science: Government, History, Sociology, Public Speaking
Develop Critical Thinking & Writing Skills why? Man, These majors require analyzing data, debating policies, and writing strong arguments
Take writing-intensive courses & practice forming logical arguments
Also, Gain Real-World Experience
First, Internships & Volunteering
Politics: Join a student government, volunteer for a campaign, intern for a local politician
Economics: Look for finance-related internships, research projects, or business clubs
Ensure to Stay Informed on Current Events
Read The Economist, Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Politico
Follow economic reports, political policies, and global affairs
Join Debate or Model UN
Great for improving public speaking & understanding policy
Next, Develop Technical & Research Skills
Learn Data Analysis & Coding
Economics uses statistics & programming (Python, R, Excel, Stata)
Take online courses in data analysis, game theory, or political statistics
Get Comfortable with Research Papers because, Both fields require reading academic papers, so start analyzing them early
Now now, What Can You Do with These Majors? 🤔
Economics: Data Analyst, Financial Consultant, Policy Advisor, Market Researcher
Political Science: Public Policy Analyst, Diplomat, Lawyer, Intelligence Analyst
Ahhh Grad School? Law School? MBA?
Many economics and poli-sci majors pursue law, public policy, business, or government careers
If you want to go into research or academia, consider a Master’s or PhD
Here is 2 of the best Network & Explore Opportunities you can do..... Ofcourse I do recommend to start.
Join Student Organizations
Economics clubs, political science associations, or honor societies
Attend guest lectures, career panels, and networking events
📝 Write & Publish Your Opinions
Start a blog or submit articles on political/economic issues
Build a LinkedIn profile & connect with professionals in your field, this is really important.... But... Also make sure you don't lose it.... Like me.... 😏.....
Well, Lastly man, Stay Open-Minded!
You’ll learn so much in college, and your interests may evolve. Explore both fields deeply, and don’t stress if you’re unsure about your exact career yet—just focus on building strong skills and experiences!
You got thisRL! Let me know if you need more guidance or even just a curiosity! 🤗 Good luck mate!
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, RL !
While you are in high school, your main focus should be sharpening the skills and knowledge that will make it possible for you to be successful as a college student Majoring in Economics and possibly a Minor for Political Science.
The classes that will be vital to you in high school that will prepare you for college level courses will be English, Math, History and anything that will sharpen your public speaking skills. You should start reading books about economics and political science, too. I knew someone who got degrees in Economics and Foreign Relations and he was always reading. He was also a stellar public speaker. So these are the things you can hone in high school. It's when you get to college that you'll be introduced in an organized way to the things that will prepare you for a career. No need to rush things.
Take things one step at a time. If you are still in High School, utilize the resources at your High School. Focus on your classes and aiming for good grades. You can't prepare for your career right now, but you sure can take sharp skills to college so that you can ace your exams, present engaging talks, participate in discussions and make strong connections with your department and professors. These are the important things right now.
In your High School junior and senior year, you can consider doing volunteer work for one of your senators or assembly members in San Francisco because there are no teen internships in San Francisco for economics and political science right now. Volunteer work at a city office or politician's office may help you learn. You don't need to bombard yourself, just take the classes I've mentioned, do a lot of reading, sharpen your writing skills (there's a lot of writing in college), proof read everything you write.
So, High School is a special, wonderful time to gain self-discovery, personal growth and sharpen skills and when you graduate college, then you can look for that career job because College will have prepared you for it. I wish you well in all you do !
While you are in high school, your main focus should be sharpening the skills and knowledge that will make it possible for you to be successful as a college student Majoring in Economics and possibly a Minor for Political Science.
The classes that will be vital to you in high school that will prepare you for college level courses will be English, Math, History and anything that will sharpen your public speaking skills. You should start reading books about economics and political science, too. I knew someone who got degrees in Economics and Foreign Relations and he was always reading. He was also a stellar public speaker. So these are the things you can hone in high school. It's when you get to college that you'll be introduced in an organized way to the things that will prepare you for a career. No need to rush things.
Take things one step at a time. If you are still in High School, utilize the resources at your High School. Focus on your classes and aiming for good grades. You can't prepare for your career right now, but you sure can take sharp skills to college so that you can ace your exams, present engaging talks, participate in discussions and make strong connections with your department and professors. These are the important things right now.
In your High School junior and senior year, you can consider doing volunteer work for one of your senators or assembly members in San Francisco because there are no teen internships in San Francisco for economics and political science right now. Volunteer work at a city office or politician's office may help you learn. You don't need to bombard yourself, just take the classes I've mentioned, do a lot of reading, sharpen your writing skills (there's a lot of writing in college), proof read everything you write.
So, High School is a special, wonderful time to gain self-discovery, personal growth and sharpen skills and when you graduate college, then you can look for that career job because College will have prepared you for it. I wish you well in all you do !
Updated
Joshua’s Answer
Im a senior polisci major[international relations oriented] and honestly the answer is pretty simple. Just immerse yourself in the culture! Join as many groups, clubs, classes, and ✨internships✨ as you feel comfortable with. you'll be rubbing shoulders/making connections with all the right people. Your resume will practically build itself.
Pick two or three professors you really click with for letters of recommendation.
Spend the majority of your time ( but not too much time or else you'll risk depression, becoming cynical, a zombie, etc.) in the polisci sphere and everything else will fall into place.
Surround yourself with the people that you want to become is the most powerful advice I have ever received.
I struggle with ADHD so sitting down and studying is the LAST thing I want to do;
but winners do what they have to do, and losers do what they want to do.
Pick two or three professors you really click with for letters of recommendation.
Spend the majority of your time ( but not too much time or else you'll risk depression, becoming cynical, a zombie, etc.) in the polisci sphere and everything else will fall into place.
Surround yourself with the people that you want to become is the most powerful advice I have ever received.
I struggle with ADHD so sitting down and studying is the LAST thing I want to do;
but winners do what they have to do, and losers do what they want to do.
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Pursuing a major in economics and political science opens doors to diverse and impactful careers. Here's some short advice to help you prepare:
1. Strengthen Foundational Skills:
Math and Statistics: Both fields rely heavily on quantitative analysis. Build a strong foundation in these areas.
Writing and Communication: Clear and persuasive communication is crucial. Practice writing essays, reports, and presentations.
Critical Thinking: Develop your ability to analyze complex issues, evaluate arguments, and form well-reasoned conclusions.
2. Explore Your Interests:
Read Widely: Stay informed about current events, economic trends, and political theories. Read reputable news sources, journals, and books.
Get Involved: Participate in debates, clubs, or volunteer activities related to economics or politics.
Consider Internships: Gain practical experience by interning with government agencies, non-profit organizations, or research institutions.
3. Focus on Key Areas:
Economics:
Become comfortable with economic models and data analysis.
Pay attention to macroeconomics (the economy as a whole) and microeconomics (individual behavior).
Political Science:
Study different political systems, ideologies, and theories.
Develop an understanding of international relations and public policy.
4. Career Preparation:
Networking: Build relationships with professors, professionals, and fellow students.
Research Career Paths: Explore potential career options, such as:
Policy analyst
Economist
Political consultant
Journalist
Government official
Consider Graduate School: Many advanced positions in these fields require a master's or doctoral degree.
In summary:
Build strong analytical and communication skills.
Stay informed and engaged.
Explore your interests through reading and practical experience.
Plan for your career by networking and researching potential paths
1. Strengthen Foundational Skills:
Math and Statistics: Both fields rely heavily on quantitative analysis. Build a strong foundation in these areas.
Writing and Communication: Clear and persuasive communication is crucial. Practice writing essays, reports, and presentations.
Critical Thinking: Develop your ability to analyze complex issues, evaluate arguments, and form well-reasoned conclusions.
2. Explore Your Interests:
Read Widely: Stay informed about current events, economic trends, and political theories. Read reputable news sources, journals, and books.
Get Involved: Participate in debates, clubs, or volunteer activities related to economics or politics.
Consider Internships: Gain practical experience by interning with government agencies, non-profit organizations, or research institutions.
3. Focus on Key Areas:
Economics:
Become comfortable with economic models and data analysis.
Pay attention to macroeconomics (the economy as a whole) and microeconomics (individual behavior).
Political Science:
Study different political systems, ideologies, and theories.
Develop an understanding of international relations and public policy.
4. Career Preparation:
Networking: Build relationships with professors, professionals, and fellow students.
Research Career Paths: Explore potential career options, such as:
Policy analyst
Economist
Political consultant
Journalist
Government official
Consider Graduate School: Many advanced positions in these fields require a master's or doctoral degree.
In summary:
Build strong analytical and communication skills.
Stay informed and engaged.
Explore your interests through reading and practical experience.
Plan for your career by networking and researching potential paths