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International Studies

Coordinator, International Studies
Office; Taylor 120
e-mail: staniek@sou.edu
(541) 552-6288
FAX: (541) 552-6439

Magdalena Staniek teaches introductory courses in political science, upper division courses in comparative politics, and CORE courses in International Studies. She specializes in European, Post-Soviet, and Latin American politics and is the coordinator for International Studies.

International Studies Mission
International Studies is the academic heart of University efforts to understand global events and the origins of contemporary world conditions. Our mission is to help students connect their own life experiences with people, places and events around the world. To this end, International Studies offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that examines economic and political systems as connected within specific cultural, historical and social contexts. Our faculty draw from diverse disciplinary orientations and collaborate to mentor students and provide then with rich academic and experiential learning opportunities. Our graduating majors are well prepared for creative and socially-responsible engagement with a globalized world.

Vision
International Studies aspires to become a dynamic, well-integrated and influential academic focus for student learning opportunities and campus international engagement, providing essential support for the University’s mission. Specifically, the program holds the following vision:

• Energetic leadership for program development and sustainability is provided by the appointment of a tenure-track International Studies director/faculty member
  
• Staffing for International Studies’ core courses is secured, creating a comprehensive, rigorous and coherent learning structure for majors
  
• Increasing numbers of faculty from diverse disciplines contribute courses and support to International Studies, enhancing program vitality and broadening course offerings
  
• Academic and experiential learning opportunities for students increase, in concert with individualized mentoring by program faculty, to enhance their intellectual development and depth of global understanding
  
• International Studies is able to assume its natural leadership role on campus, collaborating with other internationally-focused programs to promote interest in and understanding of global events and structures
  
  
• Mutually-beneficial partnerships are increased with relevant community groups and individuals, enhancing International Studies’ resource base as well as its contribution to the region.

International Studies majors are also expected to work closely with the program Coordinator or with an adviser from the International Studies Committee. Students must plan ahead to ensure optimal access to the courses that match their individual interests and areas of desired expertise while also developing language proficiency and allocating time for study abroad. While many potential course combinations exist, upper division courses are usually available in rotation and require prerequisites. Careful advising is essential.

Majors are expected to seek personal experience of global conditions through participation in a study abroad or international internship program. Many possibilities exist. Contact the Office of International Programs in SU 303 for current information.

The International Studies Program suits students who envision creative work in a globalized world. It provides appropriate knowledge and perspectives from which to develop careers in areas such as government service, business, law, journalism, social science teaching, or other endeavors emphasizing global connections and understanding. An International Studies major also provides a foundation for graduate study in a social sciences discipline, an area study program, or an International Studies program.

International Studies