“My professors have really helped me navigate what I want to do after Gustavus.”
As a Political Science and Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies double major, Madison has realized how applicable a minor in Peace, Justice & Conflict Studies will be to her future career endeavors. While topics that are covered in Peace Studies courses can be heavy and hard to learn about at times, Madison feels that the faculty within the department navigate these topics with understanding and respect. Through the Peace, Justice & Conflict Studies Department, Madison has had opportunities to participate in learning experiences outside of the classroom, including a Peace Studies Conference that was held in Iowa, which multiple Gustavus faculty and students attended. Of this experience, Madison says, “It was very cool to witness the passion from so many people who are leading their field in peace research and literature”. During this trip, Madison also was able to connect with a favorite professor, Dr. Mimi Gerstbauer, and feels grateful to have learned from a professor’s academic knowledge and life experiences. As a whole, Madison feels that the Peace, Justice & Conflict Studies Department has helped prepare her for future law school opportunities through faculty’s support, advice, and letters of recommendation. Outside of academics, Madison is also involved on campus as a Collegiate Fellow, and is a Peace Studies academic assistant on the Academic Operations Committee.