Breanne Schneider

Breanne Schneider: International Relations major avoids sophomore slump, rises to top

BreanneSchneider, 610X365 px, Student Profile

Sophomore International Relations major Breanne Schneider will venture to London next fall as an LMU Hansard Fellow to take courses at the London School of Economics and intern for a member of Parliament. The San Diego native credits her increasingly impressive list of accomplishments, including a recent stint as a legislative intern for California senator Joel Anderson, to good old fashioned hard work, initiative, and a little help from LMU’s office of Career & Professional Development.

"CPD's Branden Grimmett acted as a mentor to me," Breanne said, “providing thoughtful guidance and help developing my resume to a point that has caught the attention of internship coordinators and employers alike."

Currently, Breanne is interning for LMU's World Policy Institute extension under the direction of Dr. Michael Genovese, for whom she edits essays and manuscripts concerning political leadership.

Originally drawn to LMU for its Jesuit values and International Relations major, a rarity at most collegiate destinations, Breanne felt at home on the bluff right from the start.

"I just loved the feeling I got when I stepped on campus," Breanne said. "I appreciate LMU’s inclusivity; their focus on social justice and the education of whole person fosters an empathy and understanding for all."

She goes onto say that LMU’s average class size of 21 and student to teacher ratio of 11:1 has certainly had a positive impact.

"The entire political science department has been very supportive," Breanne said. "I attribute a lot of my success academically and professionally to them."

In addition to her classes and internship duties, Breanne is also involved with several campus groups, including Esperer, a service organization that rallies around issues involving human trafficking and sustainability, and the pre-law honors society, Phi Delta Phi.

Looking ahead, Breanne hopes to take part in one of LMU’s popular undergraduate research programs this summer. She would like to explore a topic that delves into international security, a career path she is considering post–LMU.

As for what advice Breanne has for incoming Lions...?

"I recommend getting involved as soon as you can," she said. "There are just so many great opportunities at LMU – take advantage of all the resources, foster meaningful relationships with your professors, and make the most of this time."