A former professor of government, David Dessler taught for nearly 30 years at Virginia’s College of William and Mary, where he achieved full tenure. David Dessler earned a BS in physics and history from the University of Oklahoma and a Ph.D. in international studies from The Johns Hopkins University.
Earning a degree in international studies comes with a variety of benefits. For instance, students often have a chance to travel and see first-hand how political systems and governments around the world operate. These students can also acquire transferable skills, such as a knowledge of economics and the global market, which makes them attractive to a host of employers.
While many graduates find government jobs, such as in the foreign service, people with an international relations background are in demand in the nonprofit and private sectors, as well. Pursuing a career in the field of international relations can provide individuals with the opportunity to influence policy and make an impact in areas such as trade, immigration, and diplomacy.