Writing, debating in class and in rigorous debate societies outside of class, and critical reading should be a huge part of preparation for your politics major. You must find a college that nurtures and challenges young political science minds—writers, thinkers and interpreters of political philosophy and contemporary practice. You need to study within a rigorous humanities and social science curriculum to develop empathy, global perspective and analytical writing—all essential elements for public service professionals and government leaders. You will need to study history, economics, government, philosophy and literature. You’ll need a college program that displays academic breadth, verbal communication skills, and written coursework that requires you to unpack, edit, revise, and deeply analyze your own essays, papers, and articles. Leading government officials and think tanks look for young people who can assimilate conflicting information, think deeply and strategically, and move the needle on societal ills. The way you decide to interpret: the Constitution, standing foreign policy, debates on national security, and legal precedents might inform decisions handed down for future generations.

It is a burden and privilege to be trained in government and politics because our society rises and falls on the politicians and political thinkers who alter it. Be sure to choose a college that has an aggressive internship program in Washington, D.C. and/or in international governmental agencies or think tanks. Different schools—even the ones whose names you identify as the top schools in the nation—have different strengths and very different approaches to your field of interest. College-bound students interested in Politics cannot undervalue the credentializing they can receive from the right school. After all, your hard work and interesting, authentic stories bring you to college, but college is the intellectual incubator and social network that helps you excel in life. It’s essential to choose the right school with the most exceptional, well-connected, and nurturing faculty for your future work as a professional working in service of our nation. We are here to support your worthy goals. Membership in College Admission Central will help start you on the road to success in your academic and professional career.