While some students might be cautious to pursue a degree in a major that’s never been granted before, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville graduate Rachel Thurston shared no such trepidation.
As the first person to earn a bachelor’s degree in international studies from the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences, Thurston is confident her studies will lay the groundwork for her professional success, an SIUE release said.
“With this degree, the possibilities are endless regarding how I can use it to either pursue a graduate degree or look for a full-time position,” she said the release.
Rachel Thurston
After traveling to the Czech Republic for her studies, Thurston, from Columbia, IL produced a book titled “The Resource Book for Immigrants and Refugees in the St. Louis Area,” which helps connect immigrants to services that ease integration into the U.S., the release said.
Associate Professor Sorin Nastasia, who directs the international studies program, said in the release that the book “helps individuals solve issues by answering common questions, such as where should I go for health care? How do I contact police? Where can I stay?”
The university’s stated mission is “shaping a changing world,” the release said, and Thurston’s work so far supports that effort.
“There is a strong need for individuals who maintain an international focus, and I feel thoroughly prepared to make a difference,” she said in the release.
Editor's note: the story previously stated that student Thurston was from Colombia. She is from Columbia, IL.
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