Megan Wright
Program Officer, International Rescue Committee
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 Minor
2018 Graduate is Promoted from Intern to Program Coordinator
Samuel Yocca
Global Programs Advisor, Georgetown University
Ellyanne Rosenthal
Global Mobility Partner - Europe
Jillian Zirnhelt
Peace Corps Fiji, IMF Researcher, now Ph.D. candidate in Economics at the University of Pittsburgh
News
Outstanding Student Paper Competition
Eligibility is open to all students who major in political science or international relations.
Feb 26, 2025
IR and PLS Alumni Starting Law School
IR Alum Jessica Geisler is starting her JD studies this fall at Wayne Law.
Sep 18, 2024
McGhee wins 2024 Zeeb Scholarship for Study Abroad
Aaron McGhee is the winner of the 2024 Zeeb Scholarship for Study Abroad
Jul 3, 2024
Pullins Wins Outstanding Paper Award
Sarah D. Pullins is the winner of the Outstanding Paper Award for Political Science and International Relations.
May 3, 2024
GV IN DC SCHOLARSHIP WINNER: JACKSON TISDALE
Jackson Tisdale is the recipient of the Grand Valley in DC Scholarship for the 2023-24 academic year. The purpose of this alumni-funded scholarship is to assist students in pursuing internship opportunities in Washington, D.C.
Apr 5, 2024
Events
Noche de Gala
March 29, 2025 8:00 PM
A fancy evening of music, dancing, and paying homage to the glamour of Latinoamérica. There will be a DJ playing Latino-based music of all genres all night, so, dress up, bring your...
Kpop Unleashed 2025
March 30, 2025 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Kpop Group Evolution (KGE) is a Korean culture and dance organization. We use Korean pop music and cultural presentations as a way to learn more about Korean culture. No dance experience is needed...
Piñata Making
April 2, 2025 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
During this event, students will gain hands-on experience in the traditional art of piñata making, a vibrant and culturally significant craft in Hispanic culture. They will explore the history...
African Ball Award Show Night
April 6, 2025 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
The African Ball is a celebratory event that aims to showcase the rich cultural diversity of the African continent through music, dance, fashion, cuisine, and art. It's an opportunity to...
Tabling in Kirkhof Center on Student Scholars Day: Wonderful Opportunities for Summer Internships and Post-Graduation Work and Service
April 9, 2025 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Come join us on the 29th Annual Student Scholars Day in the Kirkhof Center Lobby to explore opportunities for summer internships and post-graduation work and service. Tabling in the main Kirkhof Center...