Thanks for the explanation and your help.
Regarding being limited to security issues, that was one of my concerns if I were to pursue the Georgetown master's program. Someone else had actually suggested going the global health route, but unfortunately I don't have much interest in this field nor do I know how to get involved. I'd say I'm more interested in the Middle East, Russia democracy, and human rights issues.
Does the Security Studies program have a history of placing its alumni in think tank careers or that route?
Would you have any other suggestions? I'd be willing to move as well if graduate program choice were to be an issue in the DMV.