A recent graduate of South Dakota State University, Brittany Kuecker holds a bachelor of science with a double major in political science and sociology. Brittany Kuecker intends to continue her studies in both areas; she has been accepted into a master’s program focused on sociology and political science.

There are a number of reasons a college student might consider a double major. For example, a creative writing student might consider balancing his or her arts degree with a degree in business or science. On the other hand, an English major may realize that he or she has already achieved many of the requirements for a degree in a related discipline, such as journalism. Whatever the case may be, students considering a double major should make sure they will be able to succeed in both areas of study.

Incoming college students who have yet to declare a major should not choose a double major simply because they cannot make a decision. All degrees require a tremendous amount of time and dedication, so students intending to double major should be prepared for the workload and possess a keen interest in both subjects. More specifically, students should research each program's requirements. Creative writing majors will likely be required to submit a comprehensive thesis at the end of their senior year that includes a body of creative work as well as analytical essays; a business major will likewise have several important exams and presentations to make. Students planning on double majoring must evaluate the work that will be necessary to complete each program in order to decide whether the undertaking is achievable.

A prospective graduate student and the recent recipient of a bachelor’s degree from South Dakota State University, Brittany Kuecker studied political science and sociology. In addition, Brittany Kuecker is a former intern at a nearby animal shelter and Humane Society. 

The Humane Society of the United States recently expressed gratitude to the House of Representatives after the passing of legislation that allows for the retirement of government-owned chimpanzees working in labs and sanctuaries. The legislation, which passed the Senate without opposition late in October and provides the National Institute of Health with enough capital to care for retired chimps, is an addendum to Title III S. 252 of the 2000 Chimpanzee Health Improvement, Maintenance and Protection Act. Backers of the new movement, including the Humane Society, expect the bill to be on President Obama’s desk sometime in the fall of 2013. 

Wayne Pacelle, president and chief executive officer of the Humane Society, issued a statement praising the legislation. He pointed out that sanctuaries are run more efficiently than laboratories, allowing the bill to save money for taxpayers.