College of William & Mary
The College of William & Mary is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to a liberal arts education. Offering more than 40 undergraduate majors and several interdisciplinary options, William & Mary has long emphasized the importance of research, inquiry, and intellectual challenge.
Some of the most popular programs include Business Administration, Government, Economics, Psychology, Computer Science, and International Relations. Students have access to world-class faculty, with many professors recognized for their research and contributions to their respective fields. The university’s research opportunities are particularly notable, as William & Mary consistently promotes student-led projects and collaborations with faculty, even at the undergraduate level.
The Charles Center for Academic Excellence supports undergraduate research, fellowships, and academic internships. Additionally, students can enroll in honors programs and specialized research tracks that allow them to delve deeper into topics they are passionate about.
Nationalities Represented on Campus
William & Mary is home to students from over 70 countries, giving it a vibrant and diverse international community. International students make up approximately 6-7% of the student population, with significant representation from countries like China, India, South Korea, Germany, Canada, and various African and Latin American nations. This diversity enriches the academic and cultural experiences on campus, offering all students the opportunity to engage with peers from across the globe.
Most Popular Majors
At William & Mary, the most popular majors reflect the college’s strengths in both liberal arts and business education. Some of the most sought-after majors include:
Government (Political Science)
Business Administration (offered through the Raymond A. Mason School of Business)
International Relations
Psychology
Biology
Economics
History
These programs attract students due to the college’s strong faculty, active research opportunities, and access to internships in government, international relations, and economics, particularly due to the school’s proximity to Washington, D.C..
Unique Majors
William & Mary offers several unique programs that differentiate it from other liberal arts institutions. One standout is its Environmental Science and Policy major, which allows students to examine environmental issues through an interdisciplinary lens that incorporates science, policy, and ethics.
Another distinctive feature is the dual degree program with St Andrews University in Scotland. This program allows students to spend two years at William & Mary and two years at St Andrews, earning degrees from both institutions. Students can pursue this program in majors like Economics, English, Film Studies, History, and International Relations. The dual-degree program offers a unique opportunity for students to gain an international perspective while also benefiting from William & Mary's intimate academic environment.
Facilities
William & Mary boasts a blend of historical architecture and modern facilities. The Swem Library, for example, is one of the top-ranked college libraries in the nation, offering a vast collection of resources, including special collections and digital archives. The library also features collaborative workspaces, research assistance, and quiet study areas for students.
The Integrated Science Center (ISC) provides state-of-the-art labs and research spaces for students in STEM fields. The Raymond A. Mason School of Business features technology-enhanced classrooms and collaborative spaces that support interactive learning and business case studies.
For recreation, students have access to the Campus Recreation Center, which includes fitness facilities, an indoor pool, climbing walls, and group exercise rooms. The college is also home to the Matoaka Amphitheater and Lake Matoaka, providing a scenic spot for outdoor events and recreation.
Internship Opportunities
William & Mary encourages students to participate in internships through its Cohen Career Center, which connects students to internships, externships, and job opportunities. Due to its location near Washington, D.C., students often secure internships with government agencies, think tanks, nonprofits, and international organizations.
For business students, the Mason School of Business offers tailored career services and helps connect students to internships with top companies such as Goldman Sachs, Deloitte, PwC, and JP Morgan. Students in other disciplines, such as government and international relations, have also interned at places like the U.S. State Department, Capitol Hill, and non-governmental organizations.
The DC Summer Institute is a particularly unique program that allows students to intern in Washington, D.C., while taking courses focused on leadership, government, and public policy.
The Ideal Student
The ideal student at William & Mary is intellectually curious, motivated, and eager to engage in both academic and extracurricular pursuits. Students often have a passion for learning and are driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in their communities or fields of study. The student body is collaborative rather than competitive, and students are expected to actively participate in classroom discussions and group projects.
A William & Mary student typically thrives in smaller, discussion-based classes and values research opportunities that allow them to work closely with professors. They also demonstrate a deep commitment to public service, civic engagement, and global perspectives, which are central to the college's mission.
Social Scene
Although William & Mary is academically demanding, students still enjoy a lively social scene. The college has more than 450 student clubs and organizations, ranging from academic societies to recreational clubs and Greek life. The most popular clubs include the Student Assembly, the William & Mary Global Film Club, the International Relations Club, and various cultural organizations.
While Greek life is present, it plays a smaller role than at some larger schools, with about 30% of students involved in fraternities and sororities. Students also enjoy a variety of campus traditions, such as Yule Log Ceremony during the holidays and Candlelight Ceremonies to mark the beginning and end of the academic year.
With its proximity to Colonial Williamsburg, students often take advantage of the historical attractions, and day trips to Washington, D.C., and Richmond are common for those looking to explore beyond the immediate area.
Most Popular Clubs
Some of the most popular student organizations include the Student Assembly, Club Sports, and Service Organizations such as Branch Out, which offers opportunities for community service and engagement. The Flat Hat, William & Mary’s student-run newspaper, is also a prominent club for those interested in journalism and writing.
Other notable clubs include the William & Mary International Relations Club, which hosts conferences and Model UN events, and TribeTHON, a philanthropic organization that raises money for pediatric healthcare.
Most Famous Enterprises Created by Students and Alumni
William & Mary has produced a number of successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. Katherine Johnson, a pioneering NASA mathematician and alumna, was instrumental in the early U.S. space program. Robert Gates, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, is also a distinguished alumnus.
In terms of businesses, Michael Powell, former chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, is an alum, as is Jon Stewart, comedian and former host of The Daily Show. Many alumni have gone on to establish successful careers in law, politics, and business, contributing to industries worldwide.
Opportunities for International Students to Secure Internships
International students at William & Mary benefit from the college’s robust career services and networking opportunities. The Cohen Career Center works closely with international students to help them navigate visa regulations and identify internships through its Global Research Institute, DC Summer Institute, and partnerships with businesses.
Many international students have secured internships in sectors like finance, consulting, and government through organizations such as the World Bank, United Nations, Deloitte, and Accenture. The college's Washington D.C. office further facilitates networking opportunities, connecting students to internships in government and policy-making.
Where International Students Secured Jobs for Their OPT
Over the past five years, international students at William & Mary have successfully secured jobs during their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period at prestigious companies such as Amazon, IBM, Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, Google, and PwC. Many students have also worked for U.S. government agencies and international NGOs during their OPT. The Cohen Career Center continues to provide critical support to help international students navigate the complexities of post-graduation work authorization.
The Overall International Student Experience
The Reves Center for International Studies serves as the hub for international student support, offering assistance with visas, housing, academic advising, and cultural adjustment. The Reves Center also organizes orientation programs specifically designed for international students, ensuring a smooth transition into campus life. The center hosts regular events, such as Global Cafés and International Education Week, fostering connections between international students and the wider college community.
William & Mary’s inclusive environment makes it easier for international students to integrate, both academically and socially. There are several student organizations geared toward supporting international students, such as the International Student Association (ISA), which hosts cultural events, discussions, and festivals that celebrate the diversity of the student body. Other cultural groups, such as the African Cultural Society and the Asian American Student Initiative, also offer spaces for international students to connect with peers who share similar backgrounds and experiences.
International students often describe the community as welcoming, with plenty of opportunities for cross-cultural exchanges, both in and outside the classroom. Many faculty members at William & Mary have global experience and actively engage with international students, providing them with guidance and mentorship. The campus promotes a global mindset, and international students are encouraged to take advantage of the various study abroad opportunities offered, further enriching their academic experience.
The overall international student experience at William & Mary is marked by a strong support system, diverse opportunities for personal and academic growth, and a welcoming community that values global perspectives. Students are not only integrated into the college’s social fabric but also equipped with the resources they need to succeed in their careers, whether in the U.S. or internationally.
William & Mary Alumni Base in Latin America and Brazil
William & Mary has a growing and engaged alumni base across Latin America, including in Brazil. The college’s global network of alumni is part of what makes it an attractive option for international students, as the connections students make during their time at William & Mary can have long-lasting impacts on their professional and personal lives.
Alumni in Latin America
William & Mary has built strong connections with alumni across Latin America, including countries like Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, and Brazil. Many Latin American graduates have pursued careers in government, international relations, law, business, and finance, reflecting the college’s emphasis on public service and leadership.
In Latin America, William & Mary alumni are often found in roles within multinational corporations, NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations. The college’s strong reputation in government and international relations has led many alumni to secure influential positions in diplomatic services, economic development organizations, and human rights advocacy groups across the region. Additionally, business graduates from William & Mary have moved into management roles in various industries, contributing to the economic and corporate growth of Latin America.
William & Mary’s Global Research Institute and its focus on policy issues related to Latin America have also strengthened ties between current students and alumni in the region. Alumni often return to mentor students, collaborate on research projects, and provide valuable connections for internships and job placements.
Alumni in Brazil
In Brazil, William & Mary alumni can be found across various sectors, including finance, law, education, consulting, and technology. Graduates have made significant strides in both the private and public sectors, often leveraging their education in international relations, economics, and business to hold key roles in Brazilian industries. Many Brazilian alumni work for multinational corporations that have a presence both in Brazil and abroad, such as Amazon, Google, PwC, and Ernst & Young.
In addition to corporate roles, William & Mary alumni in Brazil are involved in entrepreneurial ventures and non-governmental organizations. Some have established their own companies or led projects focused on sustainability, education reform, and social entrepreneurship, aligning with William & Mary’s mission of service and leadership.
Furthermore, law and political science graduates have become influential in Brazilian legal practices and government institutions, working on matters related to international trade, human rights, and public policy. With its globally recognized law school, William & Mary has helped produce alumni who contribute to Brazil’s legal landscape, often in areas that intersect with global law and governance.
Alumni Network and Engagement
William & Mary’s Office of Career Services and the Reves Center for International Studies help foster a strong alumni network for international students, including those in Latin America and Brazil. Alumni from the region often participate in virtual mentoring sessions, career panels, and William & Mary’s Global Research Institute events, offering current students valuable insights and opportunities.
William & Mary also hosts alumni gatherings and events in major Latin American cities, including São Paulo, Mexico City, and Buenos Aires, giving graduates a chance to stay connected with one another and with the college. These events provide networking opportunities and keep alumni updated on the latest developments at the college.
Support for Current Brazilian and Latin American Students
The college provides targeted support for students from Latin America through its Reves Center for International Studies. William & Mary’s strong network of Latin American alumni can help Brazilian students and other international students find internships, employment, and research opportunities in Brazil and across Latin America. Alumni involvement in mentoring programs, particularly through platforms like Tribe Connections, has proven valuable for students seeking internships and post-graduate work in the region.
In addition, William & Mary’s Latin American Student Association (LASA) promotes the cultural heritage of the region and works to connect students with alumni from Latin America, fostering a sense of community and professional growth. This organization frequently invites alumni to campus to speak about career paths, offering students a chance to network directly with professionals from their home countries.
William & Mary’s alumni network in Latin America and Brazil is thriving, with graduates making significant contributions to industries ranging from finance and business to law, education, and government. Brazilian students at William & Mary benefit from a robust support system, both during their time on campus and after graduation, through active alumni engagement, mentorship, and professional opportunities. The college’s commitment to fostering global connections ensures that alumni in Brazil and the wider Latin American region remain a vital part of the William & Mary community.
Comments