International Relations at Yale?

CherryPancakes
Wed, 13 Jul 2011 06:52:18 +0000

I was in the same situation when I was a pre-frosh myself. :)

First, any major is specific in one way or another. I don’t see how poli sci is more specific than, let’s say, physics or theater studies. You have two years to explore your options before declaring a major. In my opinion, that’s enough for you to shape up your future plans.

International Studies is no longer offered, so don’t worry about it.
Poli Sci with a concentration in IR is one way to go. We do have a very strong Poli Sci department and most people are happy with it.
My personal advice is to shoot for Global Affairs. It’s a major in its own right, not a minor or something. Also, Yale is investing a lot of money and effort in building it up so I expect it to be a very good program. (I’m applying for it this coming year). The only drawback is that it is selective and they only take about 50 kids every year. Of course, that means that these 50 lucky kids have all the resources available at their disposal.