Opportunities

Experiential Learning

  • The department’s biennial trip to Washington, D.C.: Approximately 45 political science students and faculty spend two days with department alumni, learning about careers in business, law, and public policy, as well as government. The next trip will be in April of 2012.
  • Internships: Twelve internships have been established with local agencies and individuals; each provides job experience as well as academic credit. Students may also arrange internships independently or through the Office of Career Services. As an example, a student recently participated in the White House Internship Program, working in the Public Liaison Office. For information about current internship opportunities visit the ACCEL Database.
  • Washington Semester at American University or Washington Center: Participants study source materials and government institutions while gaining internship experience in the nation’s capital.

Other Special Opportunities

  • The Center for Political Participation (CPP) plans and supports events that encourage political participation; top students are chosen to help run the center.
  • Many cocurricular opportunities, including Allegheny Student Government, Young Democrats, College Republicans, World Issues Forum, Debate Team, and Amnesty International.
  • Pi Sigma Alpha annually grants an award for the best oral presentation of a Senior Project.
  • Student-run mock conventions, elections, U.S. Supreme Court.
  • Newly renovated Pelletier Library is a U.S. Government and Pennsylvania document depository (over 250,000 documents).
  • Meadville is a county seat; many students are involved in local or state government agencies.