Study USA Course

Applied Politics

Students get an insider's view of Washington's political scene and mingle with movers and shakers of American politics. They spend a week on campus to examine how political science can inform the real-world campaign environment. To strengthen the connection with practical applications, the course moves to Washington, D.C., where students met professionals, including elected officials, lobbyists, campaign managers, staffers, fundraisers, and more.

BGR, Haley Barbour's lobbying firm, is instrumental in making the trip happen, organizing meetings and providing access to D.C. professionals.

"While I am very honored to have the center and the endowment named for me, the biggest thrill for me was to see these students get immersed in real campaign and elections political science," Barbour said. "The speakers/teachers are a superlative group of some of the best-known political operatives from both parties as well as from think tanks, trade associations and super PACs. The students love it. We hope it will inspire each of them to have an active life in politics, whether professionally, as candidates or as volunteers."

Anica Choi said she appreciated being educated about government by the elected officials themselves.

"I met Mitch McConnell," said Choi. "It was amazing to hear each of the speakers' success stories and how they got there. The experience helps expose more students to the political industry, building a positive cycle for students where they move from student to intern to career professional, King said.