Meet the Students of CGS: Dan and Ian Rollins
College of General Studies: 2014 College of Arts and Sciences: 2016 Major: International Relations
What value did the College of General Studies provide to your education?
Ian: “CGS helped lay the groundwork for my college experience. It was especially helpful for teaching me how to conduct research projects. I also think CGS prepared me for the college workload and having to write papers on a pretty regular basis.”
Dan: “It provided me with a strong work ethic. Being in CGS reinforced that I need to sit down and study. I also agree with Ian in that CGS prepared me for a college schedule.”
What made you want to pursue your major?
Ian: “When I first started my International Relations (IR) major, it was because it gave me the opportunity to travel and explore other cultures. As I got older, I realized that I actually want to use my IR background to help people. I’m looking to find a job in the United Nations or an NGO after graduation.”
Dan: “Like Ian, I’ve always been interested in traveling and world cultures. Our family traveled a lot when we were kids which I think helped inspire that passion for both of us. But I really want to translate the knowledge I gained from IR to the business world. Business is so global now and it’s exciting to see how different cultures are impacted by that.”
What are some activities you’re involved in outside the classroom?
Ian: “Dan and I are both involved in the Pre-Law Review which has been fun. I became the vice president my junior year and have been involved in publishing 2 editions. One of the things I love about pre-law review is that there are so many majors represented, and a fair number of members are in CGS as well. So it’s interesting to see the different perspectives that everyone brings to their articles.”
Dan: “Yeah, like Ian said, I’ve published a few articles in the Pre-Law Review and as well as the IR Review. I like getting involved in journalistic activities and writing about political events. In one article I talked about police militarization and in another I discussed how water distribution is affecting the refugees in Jordan and Syria. I’m working on another article for this upcoming .”
What’s it been like going to school with your twin brother?
Ian: “I really didn’t want to attend college with my twin. But looking back it was a good decision. It’s interesting how we’ve been able to bond over our major and the pre-law society but still maintain our distinct selves.”
Dan: “It’s nice that we’re both on the same campus. It makes it easier to see him. Although he is annoying when we have to fly home! But all jokes aside, Boston University and CGS really brought us closer together. And it’s nice that we’re involved in the same activities but still have different passions.”