Global Studies Program

The Global Studies Program is a Dual-Diploma Program offered to juniors and seniors who go through an application process to get reviewed and accepted. The program looks for students who show dedication and interest to the Global Studies themes (the arts, the environment, globalization, religion, non-violence and war, global health, human rights, sustainability, and technology/communication). The goal of the program is to develop active and engaged global citizens who are able to think creatively and critically.

Summer Reading

Before entering the Global Studies Program, I had to read the book Caste: The Origins of our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson. The book dives into the caste systems of the United States, Nazi Germany, and India, providing crucial context That helps us understand the role of race and class in society. At the beginning of the semester, we watched the movie Origin, which focuses on Isabel's personal life and inspirations while writing the book.

Arn Chorn-Pond

Arn-Chorn Pond is a Cambodian musician, human rights activist, and survivor of the Khmer Rouge Regime. He recently visited Watkinson again and shared his story with the entire school. Despite Everything he has been through, Arn continues to focus on the good things in life, and spreads positivity through his stories and music.

MASS MoCA & The Plastic Bag Store

MASS MoCA and The Plastic Bag Store both illustrate the idea that art can serve as a powerful tool for education and activism. They encourage viewers to reflect on their actions and consider their place and effect on the global community. It reinforces the idea that addressing global issues like climate change, requires a multidisciplinary approach. By blending art, culture, and environmental science, The Plastic Bag Store has the ability to connect and resonate with so many more groups of people than a simple article does, which is why I think it is so interesting.

All-Ambassador Zoom Calls

With the non-profit organization that I am an ambassador for, there are monthly all-ambassador Zoom calls. This month's call included an educational mini-presentation about stress from the organization's Medical Advisory Council, breakout rooms to connect with other student-athlete ambassadors, and new information about collaborations that we are doing with other organizations. Learn more here.

Kamala Harris Rally

Going to this rally with my close friends was an influential moment for me. During times of chaos, it was so cool to see the women in my town come together when it's most important. We have to learn to celebrate what we have, and keep our heads held high. No matter what age we were, we were all women speaking up for what we believe in. Many of the older women were thrilled to see younger girls there that feel strongly about the effect politics has on women.

Seminar

As a junior in the Global Studies Program, I am so glad I decided to apply. So far, I am loving the program. In seminar, my classmates and I are able to discuss heavy topics in a professional setting where everyone can voice their opinions. Everyone has such insightful things to say; I think what people have to say about things is often more intriguing than the thing itself. It's interesting to talk about shared passions with my peers, and I learn new things from them every day.