Dual Major Finds Passion in Combining Entrepreneurship and International Relations

Connor Schultz ’23 (WSM/MAX), a dual major in entrepreneurship and emerging enterprises (EEE) at the Whitman School of Management and international relations at the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University, found that focusing on two of his interests provided a solid foundation for the career he is about to begin as he approaches graduation. 

Schultz knew that he wanted to explore different areas once he was accepted to Syracuse University, so he consulted with his academic advisor during his first year to find the best path. He realized that adding a dual major through Maxwell could give him a different perspective, as he would be surrounded by students on a career path outside of business. There, he chose to focus on international relations, particularly China’s relationship with the U.S., which helped his understanding of global markets and the relationships between the two countries. In addition to that, at the Whitman School, Schultz’s entrepreneurship courses provided a comprehensive education that he can use in conjunction with his international relations major. It was just the combination Schultz was looking for, so he took a chance and moved forward.

As busy as he is with his dual major, Schultz also found time to be a peer mentor, Whitman Ambassador, Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps cadet, member of DSP and member of Phi Alpha Delta Professional Law Fraternity.

After graduation, Schultz will go to work at Synchrony Bank in New York City in marketing, as well as at the New Jersey National Guard working in military intelligence. He hopes that his job at Synchrony Bank will open the door for him to travel so that he can take what he learned at Maxwell and combine it with lessons from the Whitman School that apply to real-life business situations. 

Ultimately, Schultz is pleased that he took a chance to pursue a dual major and encourages others to do that same. “Follow your passions. Do what interests you,” advises Schultz. “It's your career and future that you want to build upon, so don't be afraid to try something new that will set you apart from everyone else.”

By Rylee Pohancsek ’24