As a graduate of the Political Science program in 2000, I can tell you
that I have had many exciting experiences directly related to my studies.
I felt that a mix of my past and present experiences may help you in
your search for life after Kutztown University.
I entered Kutztown in the Fall of 1996 and was a
major in Political Science with minors in both Public Administration
and Criminal Justice. I always thought my interest in Politics was a
little too much, but after meeting some of the KU professors and seeing
Hillary Rodham Clinton speak at rally, I knew my love from Politics
was actually quiet mild by comparison! To this day,
I still keep up with politics at all levels and am looking forward to
working with the Rendell campaign. While my studies were
extremely important to me, I can tell you that having extra circular
activities has really helped me get ahead in the "real world".
By adding things to your schedule other then classes, it shows a potential
employer that you can handle multiple tasks and that you are a well-rounded
person who made the most out of their college experience. Icombined
a little bit of everything in my four years at Kutztown. I was on the
swim team for two years, worked in the Residence Halls for two and half
and took part in lots of different organizations (such at the Political
Science Club and Pre-Law Society). In addition, I dedicated a lot of
my time to a volunteer fraternity (Alpha Phi Omega) and was actively
involved all four years. By being in some of these groups, I have
made an instant connection to both co-workers and employers. Hearing
things like "My best friend went to Kutztown and was on the football
team" or "My son went to Kutztown" really happen in the
work place. I am often amazed at how small the world really is at times.
Just having subtle things, like a KU folder or pen can be a great conversation
starter.
However, having political experience is a major
plus. First, it shows your interest in the field and can also be a great
networking opportunity. Working on campaigns, internships and
volunteering for a political conventions are all wonderful ways anyone
can get a closer look at the political arena. One of the most interesting
things I did as an under grad was take on an unpaid internship with
Delaware Senator Joseph Biden, Jr. As a Projects Assistant, I learned
the ins and outs of the office - which included writing letters for
the Senator, researching government grants for non-profits, and preparing
the Senator's daily news clippings from around the State of Delaware
and across the United States. While I only met the Senator on a few
occasions, I can tell you his is an avid coxswain. Another amazing
experience was volunteering for the 2000 Republican National Convention
in Philadelphia. I was on a select team of volunteers who made sure
all accommodations were met for any delegate with a disability. Being
on the main floor during the first session is something I will remember
for a longtime to come. It was an wonderful experience and I ended up
making some wonderful contacts as a result.
I am telling you about all of these experiences
in hopes that you'll see you can shape your future while you are still
in school and that a good mix of studying and activities is what you
need to get ahead in the real world. By only studying, you are limiting
yourself in terms of learning valuable life skills that cannot be brought
into the classroom. Teamwork, time management and communication are
only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to life experience. The more
well-rounded you are, the more appealing you are to anemployer. So,
don't be afraid to stand out, go out and diversity your life!
Please e-mail us your questions for Katie Edgar
by clicking here.
