Thanks for the advice :D

I have realised that I'm incredibly interested in international relations, politics and human rights. It is just a thought but I could consider it as a path that I could take at this critical point in life. I currently study Microbiology, I have loved my course and science is still fascinating to me and I wouldn't want to waste all that I have learnt. I doubt I will act upon this interest, and it will remain just that an interest. But would it even be possible to get onto a masters course and thrive without having a prior degree in a related subject? And does anyone have any warnings of following through with a major path change like this?

I'm currently a second year student studying Microbiology with Virology, I am doing a year in industry and already have relevant work experience. I have already made the decision to travel to Latin America upon finishing my degree in 2015, but I'm worried this will jeopardize my chance of going into post graduate study. I'm very interested in research and I can't really see myself doing anything but research, but to do so I'd need to get a doctorate. Is it possible to travel before PhD and still be considered, and is it possible to apply and travel at the same time? I would be back in time for January 2016 in case I'm lucky enough to get any interviews. I know it's a little premature to be worrying about such things as it's still two years away before I'd have to confront these problems. If the answer to the above questions is that I would not have a hope in hell of getting into research if I were to pursue my plans to go to Latin America, is it too late to do so after completing a PhD? Has any one done this?