Is Political Science a good degree for the Foreign Service AND a solid backup career?
I’m 22 considering going back to school to finish my bachelor’s and I’m leaning toward Political Science.
I’ve always loved history, politics, international affairs, and current events. I considered law when I was younger, but law school is way too expensive for me. I’ve also looked into journalism, but the pay/career prospects aren’t really what I want. I also wanted to join the military specifically Air Force but I have a peanut allergy and that’s crushed that dream.
My actual dream job is becoming a U.S. Foreign Service Officer, specifically on the Political track. The international work, travel, living abroad, and nature of the job are pretty much exactly what I want in a career.
My concern is that the Foreign Service is extremely competitive, so I don’t want a degree that leaves me with few options if it takes multiple attempts or ultimately doesnt work out.
I currently work in lending/financial services and should have several years of experience by graduation. Im currently looking for a new job and am considering different industries like law, oil and gas, banking/ financing just because right now that’s what I have experience in and I have to unfortunately work full time so that I can afford to live on my own and go to online college. I’d also be interested in working for a multinational company in areas like finance, energy, government affairs, risk/compliance, or international business. I also wouldn’t mind working at a law firm or government here but not the traditional politician route.
For those with Political Science degrees: Was it worth it? What do you do now, especially if you didn’t go into law or traditional politics?
Would Political Science make sense for my goals, or should I consider something like Economics, International Relations, Business, etc. instead?