Katlyn Babyak, Class of 2016
B.A. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution,
Minoring in Journalism and Spanish
Why did you choose to study conflict analysis and resolution?
Originally, I wanted to learn about world affairs and really understand the history and sources of conflict. Conflict analysis and resolution also appealed to me because it promotes human rights and dialogue, which is what I want to do with a career in journalism. It better informs my analysis and reporting.
What are your career aspirations?
I want to be a conflict analysis and resolution practitioner through dialogue workshops and humanitarian work. I hope to incorporate my love for writing about people and human rights issues.
What has been your favorite course in the program?
It is a tie between Interpersonal Conflict Analysis and Resolution, Community and Organizational Conflict Analysis and Resolution, and Media and Conflict. Community and Organizational Conflict Analysis and Resolution was so hands-on, with an emphasis on organizing activism, that I changed my concentration from International to Community and Organizational. Media and Conflict showed me that it is possible to transform conflicts through fair and challenging reporting.
What have you done, or would like to do, to meet the program’s field experience requirement?
I interned for an NGO that advocates for international religious freedom. I hope to work for an NGO with a focus on interethnic reconciliation and/or sustainable, local solutions to poverty.
Why should someone choose this major?
You will learn more about your strengths, weaknesses, and approach to conflict. You will also learn to ask critical questions and enter into in-depth understandings. Additionally, you will develop strategies for conflict transformation and build problem solving skills.
"If someone is looking to join a community of people who geniounely care about them and the world, the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution is the place. The department is small, so the chances of you getting to speak with your advisors and professers are much more likely than in other departments. The amount of attention you will get here is unlike anything i've seen here at this university. The advisors will work with you to create a list of courses that are attuned to your personal interests and goals. Your peers in the program will feel like family. As a proud alumna, the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution has felt more like home to me than anything else I have experienced in life thus far."
- Chelsie Kuhn, Class of 2015
"A major in conflict analysis and resolution allows you to be the expert in the room. You have training that very few others do."
- Joel Borquist, Class of 2014
''From this program, you will have a breadth of knowledge that will be a foundation to live your life."
- Christine Steiffer, Class of 2010
"This degree gave me a perspective and a way to think that is extremely useful in any job."
- Danielle Wyman, Class of 2010
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