In this new feature, “All About Clubs and Societies,” Bilkent News is highlighting a different student club or society each issue.
The International Relations Society (IRS), formerly known as BIEST, serves as a place where all those interested in international relations can come together, organize events and form friendships. The main aim of the Society is to put together seminars, summits, forums, workshops, podcasts and articles dealing with areas such as international security, European Union relations, and IR theories and their real-life applications. In this way, members learn more, and help others learn more, about global political issues from experts on those issues.
IRS has subgroups and units that provide unique experiences for its members, who work in a cooperative environment that promotes teamwork. The Organization subgroup organizes all Society events through its Workshop, Events, Academy and Marketing units. The Publication subgroup comprises two units: Journal and Podcast. The Human Resources subgroup is responsible for social media, certificates and the mentor–mentee program; the Content subgroup looks into new ideas and helps to produce the “IR Talks” series and IR seminars; and the Design subgroup creates posts and poster designs.
Each subgroup offers members the opportunity to learn about a different field and develop their skills and knowledge. Through the various events and the club experience itself, IRS endeavors to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable perspective on IR and diplomacy.