By Arianne See, Visiting Undergraduate Student in Public Affairs and Sustainable Futures, School of Professional Studies
This summer, I had the great opportunity to be a part of the Columbia University School of Professional Studies (SPS) Visiting Student Program from May to August. I selected the Focus Area in Public Affairs and Sustainable Futures and served as a Visiting Student Ambassador. This meant that I was privileged to not only deepen my knowledge in areas I was intellectually interested in, but also could engage with other international students who shared my passion and curiosity in this field.
My role as an Ambassador provided me with the chance to network with individuals from different backgrounds, be it working professionals or other students who were at Columbia University for the summer. These interactions did not just facilitate an exchange of ideas, but also allowed me to develop meaningful and lasting friendships that I treasure. It was so hard to say goodbye to the friends I made over the summer!
The courses I took—Women and Gender Politics in the Muslim World, Special Operations and National Security, East Asian Security, and Strategic Intelligence/Political Decision-Making—were carefully chosen to enhance my understanding of complex global issues, namely in national and regional security. The professors I had were definitely at the top of their fields and their passion for their subjects was contagious. The classes I had felt more like dialogues rather than lectures, with professors generously sharing their insights and experience with us. These classes further inspired my academic and career aspirations.
Choosing to attend Columbia University's Summer Session was driven by my desire to explore specific areas of interest more deeply than my general studies allowed. My SPS Visiting Student experience has not only fulfilled that desire but has also further invigorated my passion for my field of study.
As I head back to my home university for the next academic year, my summer experience will certainly continue to resonate with me, enriching my understanding and fueling my passion for the subjects I study.
About the Program
Each summer, Columbia University offers hundreds of courses for Columbia students and visiting students from other domestic and international institutions. Summer Session offers the opportunity to study with Columbia’s esteemed faculty, pursue academic interests, and advance studies or prepare for graduate school. Focus areas include Arts and Culture in New York City, Foundations in Pre-Medicine, Public Affairs and Sustainable Futures, and Wall Street Prep: Economics, Finance & Analytics. Learn more about Summer Session at Columbia University.
