Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies Summer 2010 degree candidate Matthew Lipscomb thinks his decision to return to school, even after having served three combative tours of duty in the US Armed forces, was a wise one. Constant deployment over the last decade prevented him from returning to school. However, a transfer from Ft. Bragg to the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and a non-combat assignment gave Lipscomb the time and energy needed to complete his studies.

The biggest improvement for him has been his writing skills. From the first academic paper to his last, Matthew credits the the program’s faculty with his rapid growth.

“All of my professors have been meticulous, encouraging, and have aided in bringing my writing skills to a professional level,” he says.

He also took advantage of the program’s Independent study option which allows Liberal Studies students to work one-on-one with a Georgetown faculty member on a predetermined subject. Matthew is interested in Persian Studies and has thoroughly enjoyed working with Professor Farima Sidigh Mostowfi, Senior Lecturer and Director of the Persian Program here at Georgetown. They have explored a wide array of topics including Iranian cities, language and culture.

After completing his work this summer, Matthew begins work on his Master of Arts in Liberal Studies this fall where he will pursue studies in the area of International Affairs.