I am interest in working abroad with an organization that responds to basic needs and encourages peace. My curiosity in these particular fields of study grew stronger when I joined international club at my high school and continued to grow through a cultural experience I had when I spent a month traveling around Europe. Although I have always had some root in pacifism, as a Mennonite, I have recently connected to this idea and have found this world view increasingly compelling. Classes like “World History II” and “Restorative Justice: Theory and Practice,” here at Bluffton, continue to inspire and confirm my desire to work in a field focusing on issues of peace, justice, and development. Bluffton University has many classes that can help me …show more content…
In fact, I am surprised that Bluffton does not offer an international studies or peace and conflict studies because of the mission fit that is evident with such a major and in light of the demand for such majors by Mennonite Central Committee. MCC’s application for a “Emergency Response Projects Assistant - Lebanon” lists that a “Bachelor’s degree in humanitarian assistance, international development…or a related field [is] required” and their application for “Peacebuilding Coordinator - Eastern Congo” lists that a degree in “international development, peacebuilding, law, or a related field is desirable.” At this point in time it seems that the proper title and coursework are extremely important to getting a job with MCC internationally or another organization. Even if I could get a job with MCC or another organization with a major that already exists, I would not feel as prepared because the classes I would have to take that are a part of that major. It would not allow me to take the full set of classes that would be immediately relevant to what I need to know. In order to work for MCC, Christian Peacemaker Teams, or a similar origination to become a reality, I want to take advantage of the possibilities and expertise of Bluffton through