Major: Political Science
When were you first interested in Political Science?
I discovered my interest in Political Science in my senior year of high school, after taking AP Government. I knew I wanted to work in a field that allowed me to help others, and I thought Political Science would give me a wide range of opportunities.
Would you recommend your major to a future student?
I would recommend the Political Science Department to future students! The faculty are amazing and very supportive; they all care about their students and provide many growth opportunities. I feel our Political Science Department sets students up well for life after graduation and demonstrates the many different fields in Political Science students can work in.
Additionally, the Political Science Department has a wide range of unique classes that allow students to discover what they are passionate about, such as law or international relations.
What are your plans?
I am interested in environmental policy and am currently planning on working for an environmental nonprofit in San Diego after graduation.
Are there any particular experiences — in or out of the classroom — that have helped you identify that path?
During the fall semester of my senior year, I studied in Washington, D.C. with the Lutheran College Washington Semester program, one of the programs that the Cal Lutheran study abroad office partners with. While in D.C., I worked full-time at an internship for three months and was allowed to speak with individuals who work in policy. This experience helped me identify my interest in environmental policy and gave me first-hand experience of what it’s like to be working professionally.
What is the highlight of your internship?
One of my favorite parts of my internship was leading tours of the Capitol building for constituents who were visiting the city. It was really exciting to work for a representative and I had an up-close view of how Congress works to pass new bills and resolutions.
What was your internship like?
The host program, Lutheran College Washington Semester (LCWS), provides its students with plenty of chances to explore the different neighborhoods, museums, and restaurants across D.C. One of my favorite days in D.C. was our tour of the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture when we got the opportunity to speak with Civil Rights advocate Joan Trumpauer Mulholland.
What did you learn from your internship?
I left my internship with an understanding of how to properly communicate and network with my coworkers, along with how congressional offices operate day-to-day. Additionally, I was allowed to learn a lot about the city of D.C. itself. My time in D.C. taught me a lot about what I want to do professionally after graduation and how to live as an independent young professional. I recommend this program for anyone wanting to experience a semester someplace different and gain valuable work experience in a field you’re interested in!