The programme equips students with tools to analyse the complex web of relations between individuals, governments and states – both in history and today’s international politics.
READING the news and watching global events unfold often leave us puzzled. Whether the Brexit or the South China Sea conflict, we are left with a multitude of questions about the underlying motives of the countries involved as well as the causes and consequences of their actions.
A number of crises in the world, such as the conflict on the Korean peninsula or in the Middle East, are long-lasting. Yet, solutions have not been found. The wish to understand these issues inspired my decision to enrol in the Bachelor of Arts (Global) at Monash University Malaysia.
The programme equips students with tools to analyse the complex web of relations between individuals, governments and states – both in history and today’s international politics.
It is a unique mixture of history, politics, international relations and political economy. It covers a wide range of highly relevant and up-to-date topics such as the role of international organisations (for example, United Nations, European Union and Asean), refugee issues, human rights, climate change, economic development, inequality, and financial crises and their origins.
Often, the focus is on transnational or transborder developments to show the global character of these issues. Students delve into these matters to learn the causes and consequences as well as the debates surrounding them.
For instance, when understanding the impact of economic globalisation on global warming and climate change, we discuss the tensions between development and environmental protection as well as analyse the interests of industrialised states such as the United States and developing countries such as China, India or the Maldives.
Finally, we look at how international cooperation agreements such as the Kyoto Protocol or the Paris Agreement might help solve these issues. Our study often includes contentious issues as well, such as human rights, social movements, democratisation and war or peace.
By unpacking these difficult concepts, we see that they relate to the core values and interests in our societies. We study these social and cultural identities and see how they change through global interactions.
While debating these issues, we also have to take certain (ethical) positions. This encourages us to think critically, identify problems and discuss (alternative) solutions.
In global studies, students learn to be culturally aware and respect other cultures. Students drop stereotypes or any bias they might have towards other people since their subject teaches them to appreciate and celebrate the beauty of diversity.
This shapes students’ experiences and makes them global citizens who can communicate effectively. They can adapt easily and build a genuine concern for other cultures.
Alongside learning and discussing about the social issues in global studies, students develop a sense of responsibility and enthusiasm to contribute to society in a positive way.
For instance, during my first year, I wrote articles for the student magazine and became a mentor for new international students under the International Buddy Program, which aims to help newcomers transition seamlessly into the university environment.
I was also a student ambassador, which gave me the chance to nurture leadership and presentation skills. My peers got involved in non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or journalism.
These extracurricular activities paired with the classroom lessons help us find a direction for the future. They nourish enthusiasm, develop leadership skills and give us a better understanding for a future career.
Through the course of my studies, I also volunteered at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and a local NGO called Shelter Home for Children where I spent time teaching refugee children. This gave me insight into future jobs and career prospects.
The prospect of global studies students are not limited to any particular field but expands to a range of NGOs, diplomacy, foreign affairs, politics, education and even research-based work.
The soft skills acquired by students are highly sought by employers from the public and private sectors. Global studies graduates work in governments and international organisations.
As for me, I am looking forward to my exchange programme at Leiden University of the Netherlands next semester as part of my coursework.
I aspire to further my studies after I graduate, contribute to academia and live by Monash’s motto, Ancora Imparo, which means “I am still learning”. – By Saima Islam (pic), second-year student majoring in global studies at the School of Arts and Social Sciences, Monash University Malaysia.
For more information, visit www.monash.edu.my