Hi. I am Madison Andrews. I am an out of state student from Laurel, Maryland. My hometown is less than 45 minutes from Washington, D.C., which is the central area for politics and government in the United States. I have lived In the same city for my whole life. Also, while in high school I was an International Baccalaureate Program candidate. While in this program I was exposed to a variety of cultures and ideas. This was especially so in our Model United Nations Organization. I have a younger sister who is in the fifth grade now and was sad to see me go so far away from home. Yes, I left my home of 18 years to come to The Ohio State University. I chose to come to this awesome school because of its diversity and lively atmosphere. The campus in itself drew me in, and I immediately knew where I wanted to be.

I am double majoring in International Studies with a concentration in Security and Intelligence and in Arabic. I chose this major for two reasons. The first reason being that I watched a video on YouTube where Ohio State students had to find a way to deal with a mock terrorist attack. I thought the activity and the strategy skills that were required in this activity were really interesting. I knew that this was something I wanted to be a part of. The second reason I chose this major was because my mother works at the State Department, so I hear about some events that are taking place both internationally and domestically that affect the Unite States. I wanted to be able to help keep this country and its people safe. This major is  most suitable for the career path I would like to take in the Intelligence Community. With this degree I hope to work with the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of State. At this point I am not sure of the specific area of intelligence in which I want to work. Hopefully, during my time at Ohio State my major classes will help me narrow my focus on a specific career.

While at The Ohio State University I hope to take advantages of the many opportunities that are presented. Whether it be internships, study abroad programs, community service, or just making connections with the faculty and staff. I am currently in the Second-Year Transformational Experience Program. This program has allowed me to meet many people outside of my major and gain different perspectives from them. This program will also allow me to participate in a project that will allow me to grow as an individual. The program will fund any experience up to two thousand dollars. I am currently working on getting a Leadership activity approved. This program is an International Studies Leadership Conference in Dubai. Being able to participate in this activity would be beneficial for both of degrees. I would have an opportunity to practice my Arabic speaking in practical situations. I hope that I am able to get this experience approved.

UPDATE:

In the 2016-2017 school I was the Co-President and soon to be Cultural Chair in the coming school year. We are a new club this year so it was a learning experience for all. Unlike the more uncommon languages taught at OSU, Arabic doesn’t have a round-table for students to practice their speaking. So, this club has given me the opportunity to practice in an informal setting. I have seen some substantial growth with my Arabic skills. As a part of the club leadership, I lead group discussion, run meetings, club administration: making social media posts, reserve rooms, manage club attendance, identify weekly meeting topics for discussion. Personally, Arabic club has made me love the Arabic language more. I incorporate Arabic into my daily life by listening to Arabic music and watching films in Arabic. I hope to travel around the Middle East so I can experience the culture first-hand.

Next year I will be a Resident Advisor on the International Affairs Scholar’s floor in Smith-Steeb. I am very excited to be working as a RA. I hope to have a positive impact on my residents and make their college experience memorable. I will be working with another RA who is also an International Affairs Scholar. I can’t wait to get to know Will and my residents and have a good year with them.