glasscube

Hey all - I've got two questions as pertain to my graduate school aspirations. But first, a little background information: Sex: Male Ethnicity: White Age: 18 University: Monolithic-sized state school (STEM-oriented), USA Classification/Major: Rising junior, Economics GPA: 4.0 institution (31hr), 4.0 xfer (39hr) GRE: To be taken in Fall for first time. Coursework: A/A+ all Economics coursework up to/including calculus-based intermediate micro theory (so far). Intent to take Calc II/III, Linear Algebra, Econometrics I&II before graduation Goal: Be competitive for top-tier IR (JFK/SIS/SFS/Korbel)/International Development (Yale/UPenn/SIS/Berkley?) programs So, I'm aware that it seems it may be a little early to ask questions pertaining to graduate school, but my University offers a joint-degree M-ID program that, if I chose, would need to be applied for in the fall. Question 1: Given my age and relatively short time in college (entry class '18), I haven't had time to garner significant internship experience prior to a hopeful grad-out-of-undergrad application with the exception of a six-week stint at a Singaporean development consulting firm (upcoming this summer). This is why I'm wondering if my ECs might be able to come in clutch and serve as psuedo-work experience for grad school apps, given the fact that, although I absolutely love my engagements on campus, they definitely feel like a job at times. Since last Fall, I've rotated through six organizations/roles, but two stand out: Will these two roles prove of any significance on a grad school application (if I were to apply in the Fall to joint-degree program), and if so, would they prove within the same range of value as work experience (if yes: dare I actually put them under Professional Experience within my resume)? What could I do/emphasize to legitimize them further? Question 2: Let's say I don't apply to the Joint Degree Program. On a general basis, what should I be doing from here if I want to be a strong Fall 2017 app? I intend to... a. GRE prep/learn French to a reasonable extent before graduation (French for M-ID emphasis) b. Scrounge up an internship for next summer c. Research OR study abroad senior year? Any help or advice is highly appreciated, and I would be more than happy to provide any clarification that may prove of assistance.