"The answer is...Karachi?"

"That is correct." By identifying this Pakistani city I advanced to the final round of the Kansas State Geography Bee, and proved to the world that I loved geography. Throughout my life I have held a passion for all social sciences, and plan to utilize this to its fullest extent in my college education and career. After much deliberation, I have tentatively decided on a college major that will aid me in realizing my full potential. By pursuing a dual major in political science and German, I would open myself to a myriad of career possibilities, such as a translator, lawyer, politician, and diplomat. Any of these occupations would allow me to take full advantage of my love for the social sciences.

The translator is probably both the least glamorous and most language intensive career of the group. German is the language of my ancestors, and living in Hays, a heavy German-speaking community, for seven years served to further my interest in this anything-but-pretty language. For years I have defied the demands to take Spanish classes, and have recently discovered that there are many opportunities for German speakers in the workplace, contrary to the belief of many Spanish teachers. Germany is our second-strongest trading partner, trailing only Japan, so a translator with a Fortune 500 company is brimming with potential. Because of this vital economic connection, diplomatic relations with Germany must be maintained, and translators are an integral component of the State Department. A strong liberal arts education with an emphasis in political science would strengthen my position in either of these areas. Interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate clearly would be essential in this field. A translator probably carries the least room for advancement, but could still be an intriguing and entertaining career.

I have my doubts for the legal profession. For years I aspired to be a famous courtroom crusader, but events such as the O.J. Simpson case have caused me to lose faith in lawyers and our legal system in general. I include a career in law here because of the obvious possibility. A political science degree would serve as excellent preparation for law school, which can then be completed in three years. Upon passing of the bar exam, the entire world of law is laid before a young ambulance chaser’s eyes. Corporate lawyers perform mundane tasks for massive companies and rarely see the inside of a courtroom. Trial lawyers are the supposed heroes, whether defending the wrongly accused or sticking with the little guy and suing evil enterprises. A knowledge of German would create opportunities in the area of international law, a constantly growing and ever-changing field. Whatever the position in law, the career brings great amounts of stress and thousands of bad jokes. The possibilities for advancement are certainly there, including a judicial seat or a major firm partnership.

I also have trouble considering the political life. Over much thought I have come to the conclusion that I am simply too honest to be a politician. I could be the most ethical and upstanding candidate, and no one would believe a word I said. Such is the taint that dirty politicians have placed on the profession. I believe I would find this simply too frustrating, but again, the possibility does exist. With a bachelor’s degree in political science or public administration, I could possibly secure an entry level job in a city government, without having to run for office. Graduate study could beef up my credentials further. From there the field is wide open. Politicians hail from all walks of life, and you are what you choose to make of yourself. Incredible advancement could be achieved, if patience is held. A city council seat could lead to the state legislature, which over time could create a strong run for the governorship, which, if great progress is made in the state, could put one in the national spotlight. My moderately conservative political ideas have often caused me to dream of renewing the great spirit that I know does exist in America, but I am unsure if I am up to the challenge.

Of all the careers described here, currently I view the diplomat as the most intriguing possibility. This may seem a strange choice of profession, but personally I see it as the best way to devise a job around my love of social science. A political science degree, coupled with master’s work in an area such as international relations, would provide for an excellent resume. Fluency in German could serve to obtain a position in a beautiful European country, such as Germany, Austria, or the surrounding western countries of the continent. Both working in the State Department domestic headquarters in Washington, D.C. or the U.S. Foreign Service, which holds embassies in nearly every country, would provide for a thrilling lifestyle. One must be willing to serve in any foreign country, and work with all races and nationalities. A variety of tasks must be able to be performed, from assisting Americans in obtaining passports to entertaining both foreign and American diplomatic officials. Possible advancements include ambassadorships and, ultimately, the lucrative Secretary of State’s office.

I have always believed it vitally important to know about the world that we occupy, and all the wonderful people and places that exist within it. A political science/German dual major creates many positions that fulfill this dogma, such as a translator, lawyer, politician, and diplomat. To quote the 4-H pledge that I have recited so many times, each of these careers would help me to better understand and serve"myself, my community, my country, and my world."