What are a good major and minor for a person wanting to be a Foreign Service Officer?

Question

I plan on being a Foreign Service Officer (it's like a diplomat) after college. It involves two to four year tours in different countries around the world doing different diplomatic work... That sort of thing.

So any suggestions on what I should major in when I go to college in two years? I'm planning on getting my Master's (how long does that take?) and would be willing to attempt a double-major if anyone recommends it. Otherwise, what should I major, as well as minor, in? I'm very interested in languages, so I've been contemplating in having some language or another as my minor... What do you all think?

Oh, and does anyone have any good suggestions for schools that are well-known for their international relations programs? Preferably in the midwest (near Wisconsin) because I'm poor and probably want to do something in-state if at all possible. Otherwise, I need a LOT of scholarships... LOL.

Thanks in advance for any advice you can give me! Sorry this question is so long...

Answer 1

For your undergraduate degree, your options are varied. Majoring in a language or an international studies program are a probably the best choices however. Most schools have language programs, or even better regional studies. If regional studies or international relations is not a choice, you could duel major in political science and language. The real important thing is however to do well in your studies and develop good writing and oratory skills.
For your graduate studies, try and do an international studies program. The number of schools with international relations programs is not that numerous, but the top ones in the country for both Masters and Undergraduate are
1. Columbia
2. Georgetown
3. Harvard
4. George Washington
5. American University
6. John Hopkins (mostly masters)
(this is just an approximate order, each has strengths and weaknesses).

These schools ALL have excellent programs that would easily prepare you to be an FSO. Also, do not rule out applying to these schools. I got a full scholarship to American University for my undergraduate, where I did a major in International Studies and a minor in Spanish. I was also offered quite a bit of money by George Washington, which has an excellent program, but is a bit more expensive.
Honestly, going to one of the four schools in DC (Georgetown, George Washington, American, and John Hopkins Masters program SIES) will prepare you the best, as you are likely to get valuable internships and other experiences that most schools can not offer.
For your Masters, plan on it taking 2 years, which is standard for an International Relations Masters. That assumes about 3 courses a semester. I am just finishing up my Masters at American in US foreign policy. I would say about a quarter of the people in my program are applying to be an FSO.
You really really should get some sort of expertise in an language as it really strengthens your resume. Also, picking a critical language , like those listed above is helpful (Arabic, Farsi, Pashtun, Korean) and will give you more opportunities, but is not necessary. Study abroad and travel experience also helps.
Finally, plan on studying for the FSO exam well in advance, it is extremely hard and most people take it multiple times. This can be frustrating because it is offered only once a year, and they only take the top scorers, regardless of the score. So it can vary quite a bit from year to year

Answer 2

You seem like a very intelligent young lady and from the way you write I think you'll go far in your chosen career.
My own choice would be major in Languages – Arabic or Farsi; Forensic Accounting as a minor.