“There is an overarching effort to develop our own understandings of political and social issues through being exposed to perspectives that might differ from our own.”
Claire was drawn to a major in Political Science since the beginning of her college career as someone who is passionate about social justice and advocacy.
Her First-Term Seminar class was taught by Richard Leitch, who would remain her advisor as a Political Science major, and who has become the most influential faculty member for Claire. Claire appreciates his enthusiasm and expertise in many different disciplines, which she finds makes lectures and discussions in his classes very engaging.
She has appreciated her Political Science classes in general as opportunities to connect real world events and issues to broader “theory-based ideas about human nature, governing, and power.”
Claire describes the environment of Political Science classes as mainly discussion-based, during which students are introduced to differing perspectives, and develop teamwork, communication, and critical thinking skills. She feels that this is critical for a future career in politics requiring compromise and open mindedness, saying, “The Political Science Faculty at Gustavus equip their students with the skills necessary to confidently enter the workforce with a mindset eager to learn and grow.”
Students within the department also have opportunities for off-campus experiential learning, including the annual Day at the Capitol, during which students are able to talk to their legislators and advocate for the Minnesota State Grant Program. Claire has been involved with this event, which has also given her the opportunity to network with Gustavus alumni that work in government and politics.
Within the Political Science Department, Claire also appreciates the community and relational atmosphere among her peers and professors. Students are able to attend things such as “Donuts with the Department” and an annual Political Science Picnic, which “encourage students to build meaningful relationships with their peers and professors, further enriching experiences within the classroom.”
Apart from her Political Science studies, Claire is involved in other organizations on campus, including Big Partner Little Partner, Gustavus Youth Outreach, Sunday Worship Community, Choir of Christ Chapel, Whittling Club, and Handbells.