Careers

“I put my American Studies degree to use every day working at a public affairs firm in Washington, D.C. I developed a strong writing foundation through American Studies, and I apply that to my diverse range of writing projects, from op-eds and speeches to memos and research documents.

American Studies taught me how to observe and understand our complex, often difficult world — and that’s made me a more thoughtful, critical, and empowered citizen.”

"My love is great ambitious writing, literary journalism, and writing that affects people and sticks with them."

Jim Nelson became Editor-in-Chief of GQ in 2003. From 1994 to 1997 he was an editor at Harper’s, where he was responsible for the magazine’s Readings section. His writing has also appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Gourmet, and Food & Wine. Prior to his magazine career, Jim has worked as a writer/producer for CNN in Washington, D.C., and as a writer’s assistant on various sitcoms in Hollywood.

"My background in American Studies has given me a much deeper understanding of the countless societal factors that shape the social, physical, and psychological environments for the patients with whom I meet every day."

Peter spent the year after graduation working with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest as a Community Health Specialist in Portland, Oregon. 

"In my job interviews, being able to talk about my thesis and the research grants I was awarded as an American Studies major attracted the interests of recruiters and made me stand out from other candidates.  These concrete achievements I worked toward in my undergraduate career made it easy to elaborate on the accountability, project management, and work ethic that I could bring to various types of positions."