MIS in Action

Students in the Master of International Service program come from all sectors—government, for-profit, and non-profit organizations—and many countries around the world. Our students embrace their diverse backgrounds, which enhance class discussions and the academic experiences of all of our MIS students. Together, they build on the foundations of their knowledge and skills, learn from one another and from faculty, and endeavor toward their career goals.

On-Campus Immersion

One of our most valuable program components is the opportunity to connect with classmates and faculty, build lasting and professional relationships, and develop real-world skills that directly apply to students' professional lives. To foster this development, all Master of International Service students participate in an on-campus immersion weekend as part of their curriculum requirements. Offered in the spring and the fall, immersion provides students the opportunity to:

  • join their classmates and peers in-person to actively expand their networks
  • work with professionals on branding their career and develop a professional strategy
  • personally engage with leaders in the international community
  • network at high-performing international relations organizations in the nation's capital

Cross-cultural Leadership & Management

During the immersion weekend, students will also have the opportunity to participate in part of our required Cross-cultural Leadership and Management course, a hybrid course divided between a period of immersion and once-a-week online classes during the semester. In this highly interactive class, students learn both theoretical and applied approaches to leadership and management with an emphasis on how to incorporate those strategies in their own leadership development, especially in cross-cultural and global contexts.

 

Get Involved Graduate Student Council

The SIS Graduate Student Council (GSC) is committed to providing professional development, advocating for graduate students, and building a school-wide community. GSC provides opportunities to graduate students to plan and participate in social and professional development events, serve on school committees, advocate for themselves and their peers, and generally have their voices heard in the SIS administration. With a team of senators representing the various programs at the School of International Service and a dedicated Executive Council, the GSC strives to be a leader both inside and outside American University. Contact the GSC at sisgsc@american.edu