|
David Rzeszotarski
Hometown: Chesterland, OH
High School: West Geauga
Major: Non-Western Studies
Why did you choose to pursue non-western studies at Mount Union? I chose to pursue my double major in history and non-western studies because it is a field that I am very interested in, but most importantly it is what I really enjoy studying. After taking many different classes in many different areas my freshman year, I found that studying East Asia in particular was not only something completely new to me, but the material was engaging and rewarding. This has opened up countless opportunities for me, and I feel I am getting the most out of my time at Mount Union studying these fields.
What types of jobs are available for students who share your major? There are many different career paths available to history/non-western studies majors. Education is a very popular field for many, but countless other opportunities exist. There are many law programs that integrate with East Asian studies, and a history or non-western studies major is an excellent foundation for law school. Positions in business, government, and higher education are also available. Virtually any field of graduate study is compatible with these majors, opening even more potential career paths after graduation.
How will you use your degree upon graduation? I am planning on attending a master’s degree program in East Asian studies that will focus on both history and language. Following that I will either go on to either a Ph.D. program in history or attend law school to specialize in international law. I hope to have the opportunity throughout my career to travel and work in East Asia.
What activities are you involved in? I am a member of the History and Political Science Club, and serve as vice president of the Mount Union College chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, the history honorary fraternity. This will be my third year as learning assistant for the Asian Civilizations class. I attended the USAC study abroad program to Chengdu, China over the summer, and plan on studying in Japan next semester. I also attend various other student organizations, and have participated in the honors program.
Elements a person should possess to succeed in your major? To be successful in this area a strong interest is essential. Studying foreign languages has been very helpful to me in the fields of both history and non-western studies. One must also be willing to read and write a considerable amount. Critical thinking and discussion skills are also very important.
What advice can you offer for someone who is considering having the same major as you? My advice for someone considering either history or non-western studies is to go for it! Talk to both students and professors in the history department to become more familiar with the material, coursework, and requirements. Perhaps the best way to find our if you are interested is to take one class in the major and go from there (and fill a general education requirement at the same time!). Most important of all in my opinion is to enjoy what you study.
|
