After enrolling in the program, associates begin to accrue credits toward certification by documenting and reflecting on those experiences in a portfolio. Credit-bearing experiences include pre-approved courses, programming offered by the Center for Political Participation and related departments on campus, approved study-away programs, independent research (including Senior Projects), Law & Policy-approved internships, and interaction with the pre-professional offices and fellowship advising. It is the responsibility of the student, in collaboration with CPP peer advisors, to document progression toward certification through the development of a reflective portfolio.
Completion of the Program
Points toward the certificate will be awarded based on the completion of pre-approved opportunities, both on and off campus. Students will track their experiences throughout their collegiate career and complete reflective entries in a portfolio designed to track their progress in the program.
Each student will engage in a unique combination of experiences that reflect his or her interests. For example, complete portfolios would include such items as:
- Personal statements for law school, competitive fellowships, and/or grad school applications
- Awards
- Reflection papers on workshops
- Independent research
- Study away or experiential learning seminars
- Civic engagement courses and programs
- Coursework
- Senior projects
- Other items that reflect their developing interests in law and policy
Completed portfolios would be submitted in March or early April of their senior year to a review committee (CPP staff, pre-law advisor, departmental representatives). At that point, an exit interview is scheduled, the portfolio is evaluated, and certification is granted.