The History and Political Studies Department: A Vibrant Community 

The History and Political Studies department at Washington Adventist University is giving students the opportunity to become associated with real life matters, which enable them to grow in their area of expertise. By becoming involved, they not only benefit themselves, but those around them. As the department continues to grow, new ideas have emerged that can blossom in the near future. Therefore, the Department of History and Political Studies is advancing and ready to fulfill the tasks that are presented to them. 

 

The department is known to be highly involved in the community. Every year at Service Day, students sign up to visit the Historic Takoma, where they can scan newspapers for the city, and where they are responsible for filing or archiving historic material. While some visit this place once a year, others may seek this opportunity to start an internship. This past year, students have interned with delegates of Maryland, at law offices, the GC archives, the Historic Takoma, and Global Peace. 

Every year, students from the International Relations class visit the United Nations. Participating in the Model United Nations allows students to become engaged and to discuss significant topics based on international security. Every year, the briefings alter, allowing students to discover and become familiar with the different issues going on in the world. One year, the topic of discussion was on poverty, another year it was on the country of Syria, and last year the Model United Nations focused on the role of the Secretariat and its goals. These scholars are diving into profound topics that allow them to become global thinkers.

On September 6 and 8, a Student Re-Orientation, specially targeted for those in the History and Political Studies department took place. The orientation included a group of exercises that gave students the chance to improve reading, writing, and professional growth. The purpose of the orientation was to prepare students in the program, and give them a taste of what is expected in the future. Dr. Franics mentioned that all majors, from the first year, are expected to create a career plan from the start to keep them focused. By the time they reach their senior year, they should have a plan for their career. Because the advisors stress early planning, it is common for graduates from this department to attain a job, or attend graduate school after graduating.

As mentioned previously, the History and Political Studies department is known for being highly involved in the community. However, they continue to desire to grow in this area. Although the involvement with the city of Takoma Park is active, the department plans to continue to be even more involved with the city, by creating events that can draw the community together. In cooperation with the Center for Law and Public Policy, they have hosted the Film Series on Social Justice. 

In addition, Dr. Francis stated that she plans to incorporate the involvement of the Alumni more actively. The Alumni bring a lot to the table in terms of ideas. They’ve walked the path, and can partner up with students by helping them pursue their goals.Their involvement can shape the department and motivate those who need it the most. Alumni, who have graduated in the last three years, have continued their education at the John Hopkins University, American University, Hofstra University, School of Law, and William and Mary Law School. Others have been employed in government and teaching. 

Striving for excellence is the ultimate goal. Since 1965, the department has been a member of the National History Honors Society. In addition, The WAU chapter is known as the Kappa Epsilon , and students with a high GPA are inducted yearly.

“If the department could be described in one word, it would be vibrant” Dr. Francis recalled. These students are always ready to serve, and their lively spirits can suffuse an entire room. The History and Political Studies department is a vibrant community that is growing each day.”

This year, ten new students joined the department. As the years go by, the goal is for the numbers to keep increasing. Indeed, this vibrant community is willing to take the next steps towards success. They are ready to expand and impact whoever they encounter.