Meet Our Students!

Miles DiNardo

Major: Political Science
Minor: Italian
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Cincinnati, OH

I am the Secretary for the United Nations Association chapter on campus and a member of the Sierra Club, working with the Earth Day Committee. I am currently conducting research with Dr. Bart Elmore in the Environmental History Department. After I graduate, I plan on going to Law School. My favorite thing about Ohio State is attending all the different sporting events.

Connor Gartin

Major: Political Science
Minor: Creative Writing
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Dublin, OH

I’m a Residential Advisor in Smith-Steeb Hall for the Law and Society Scholars, a first generation college student in Tri-Alpha, a member in Buckeye Leadership Fellows and the STEP Program, and I’m planning on interning in Washington D.C. through the WAIP Program for the 2025 summer. I also plan on going to law school after undergrad and aspire to travel around to different cities across the United States. My favorite thing about OSU is opportunity to connect with my peers. I always feel supported and uplifted to be my most authentic self.

Killian Hoyt

Major: Political Science (Bachelor of Science)
Minors: Public Policy, Spanish
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Toledo, OH

Beyond being an ambassador for the Political Science Department, I currently serve as the Director of Finance for the Residence Halls Advisory Council, where I distribute scholarships, grants, and programming funds to enrich the on-campus residential experience. I am also the Political Director for the OSU College Democrats, where I coordinate with local elected officials and leaders to bring speakers and opportunities to our club. I also serve as mentor for the John Glenn Living Learning community!

Off campus, I’ve also been busy working for Columbus’s Mayor Ginther, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, the Ohio Democratic Party, and Senator Sherrod Brown’s 2024 reelection campaign. After undergrad, I hope to work full time on campaigns and later attend law school.

My favorite part about OSU has been building my own community of support and making new friends every week!

Layla Mobin-Uddin

Majors: Political Science, International Studies
Minor: Spanish
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Cranbury, NJ

I am a current Senate Page for State Senator Hearcel Craig and President of College Democrats. I was previously a communications intern for Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman in her DC and District offices last summer. I was a research assistant for Professor Ritchie in the summer of 2023 and have worked on a handful of campaigns the last few years. After graduation, I hope to go back to DC for a year or 2 before going to law school. My favorite thing about OSU is football season, the school spirit and endless amount of opportunities!

Naina Sarup 

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Aurora, Illinois

I am involved with SCNO, a consulting club that helps non-profits all across America. I am also involved with USG. Lastly, I am involved with a fusion dance team, Buckeye Fusion, that competes all across America in a desi dance circuit.

I hope to attend law school.

Maryn Cianciolo

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

I chose to major in Political Science because of long-held attraction to political discourse. To paint a more vivid picture: I remember in middle school, I was watching the news, and I was commenting on the round-table political discussions, and my dad overheard me and recommended I study political science. I never heard of this discipline when he mentioned it, but my attraction to political discourse, theory, and literature grew. When it was time for me to declare my major in applying for college, I knew I wanted to delve into my passion for political science. 

I serve on the Academic Affairs committee for the Undergraduate Student Government, and I am currently helping to plan for the spring Academic Identity Week. I also was accepted into NEW Leadership Ohio this spring, which was a week-long program through the John Glenn College where I learned key skills on how to bolster female representation in government and policymaking. 

After graduation, I plan on pursuing law school with particular interests in intellectual property law or health law. I have heightened interest in how the law will change with emerging technologies, such as AI and CRISPR gene editing technology. 

I hope future students understand that the breadth of careers political science offers. Many students enter this major under the assumption that there are only two career areas to pursue: government or law. However, during my time thus far in political science, I have embraced that political science as a discipline is just that: a discipline, and as a discipline, political science teaches you theory and reasoning that helps you pursue a plethora of careers. You do not have to go into government or argue in a courtroom; you can be a campaign advisor, a political correspondent, a political journalist, and so much more in political science. 

John Colacarro

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2029
Hometown: Wickliffe, Ohio

I chose to pursue Political Science because I was a political activist during high school. I was involved with High School Democrats of America and now I am involved with Students Demand Action at OSU.

Dr. Swigger is a political science professor who has made an impact on me. He always makes his lectures very engaging and interesting, and I look forward to going to his class every week.

After graduation, I want to become an attorney in Cuyahoga County.

Dylan Gilbo

Majors: Political Science and Biochemistry
Graduation Year: 2029
Hometown: Oakland Park, Kansas

I am currently Pre-Law and want to obtain a role in government so that I can help solve the problems of the 21st century through diplomacy. Therefore, I thought there would be no better way to learn about the structure of politics and how to navigate the process than through learning political science. 

My current professor of Political Manipulation, Jiyoon Kim, has helped me realize that there is no such thing as wasted time, but that each opportunity we participate in is another chance to grow and learn what we want to continue to abandon. She shared her own life story with me, opening my eyes to how seeming mistakes can actually turn out to be incredibly important in shaping character and opening previously hidden doors. 

I am currently working on research to discover trends in Writs of Certiorari under Professor Janet Box-Steffensmeier. I am incredibly grateful that she would take on a freshman, and this opportunity has already taught me so much about what it means to be a part of a team, the responsibilities that come along with it, as well as the elation of success when a task is completed.

After graduation, I hope to attend law school and study to obtain a position in government to be able to bridge science and politics. I hope to use my understandings of both spheres to pass legislation that is influenced by evidence-based research findings to better public health and equality around the world.

Stephanie Herr

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Norwich, CT

I loved the civics and philosophy classes I took in high school and politics has always been a topic that interested me. Political Science seemed like a way to combine my interests into a major I could pursue.

I will be studying abroad in Spain this spring, and I hope to experience different food and art such as flamenco dances and paella.

After graduation, I am planning to pursue law school back home in Connecticut.

Neiko Hribal

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Mount Pleasant, PA

I chose to major in Political Science because it’s such an interdisciplinary field that connects many of the things I’m passionate about. It allows me to explore how the environment, the economy, and social issues all intersect and are shaped by politics and policy. I’ve always been curious about how decisions made at different levels of government impact people’s everyday lives, and studying Political Science gives me the tools to understand those connections!

I really admire Dr. Ju Yeon (Julia) Park’s teaching style and the way she pushes students to think more deeply about political issues. She also gave me the chance to work as a Research Assistant during my first semester, which helped me develop a stronger interest in Political Science and also gave me a deeper understanding of the research that goes into published work. I gained hands-on experience with data analytics, particularly in cleaning and analyzing data on congressional committees and interest groups using Excel, which also helped strengthen my Excel skills. Beyond the classroom, she has always been kind and willing to offer advice and help whenever I needed it, which has meant a lot to me.

I am currently interning as a Legislative Intern for State Representative Christine Cockley, who is also an alumna! So far, I have been involved in drafting newsletters, tracking constituent communications, and supporting general office operations. I’ve also had the opportunity to assist with bill testimonies, co-sponsorship requests, and a variety of other legislative tasks.

I was also a member of Phi Alpha Delta for two years. It was a very interesting and engaging club that offered plenty of opportunities to network with professionals in the legal field. The organization also hosted fun events for members, organized community service projects, and provided many other ways to get involved and learn outside the traditional classroom setting.

My advice for prospective Political Science students is to build connections with your professors at OSU. They provide so many opportunities to gain hands-on experience, whether through internships, research, or other projects, and can help you learn far beyond what happens in the classroom. While I am still figuring out my career goals, I am particularly interested in working within environmental policy, whether through environmental consulting, lobbying, or other avenues. This is currently my main passion, and I hope to build a future where I can make a meaningful impact in this field

Christiana Jay (CJ) Marcella-Sill

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Circleville, Ohio

After struggling to feel connected with and passionate about my studies as a STEM major, I decided to pursue law and policy. I have been able to participate in the Washington Academic Internship Program (WAIP), where I interned and studied in DC for Senator Sherrod Brown, and the Victory Congressional Internship Program, where I interned and studied in DC for the House Democratic Caucus.

My biggest piece of advice to future students is to get involved on campus! 

After graduation, I hope to pursue a career in Veterans Affairs policy! I’m considering law school or a masters program in public policy, policy admin, or public health.

Raquel Marn

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Painesville, Ohio

I want to go to law school, and I specifically chose to major in political science because I have always been very interested in American politics and the current polarization of political parties. 

Vladimir Kogan is one of the most respected professors I’ve ever taken classes with. He genuinely impresses me in every class about his knowledge on our topics. Feminist Political Theory taught by Taís Souza Carareto introduced me to new concepts about western feminism and how it compares to contemporary feminism. I recommend picking classes that will hold your attention and spark your interests. 

On campus, I am in Phi Alpha Delta, the pre-law fraternity. Here, I have met a lot of people from similar majors and it has given me opportunities to make connections in law and political science. 

Elizabeth Marricco

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2029
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA

I was always passionate for the legal and justice system, so it was something to wanted to pursue. I am currently involved with the Salmon P. Chase Center for Civics, Culture, and Society. They have speakers such as philosophers and authors like Cornel West give lectures on various topics and promote civil discourse and truth-seeking. 

Join and get involved as much as you can. There you can form connections, learn about different topics, and participate in events that build community

After graduation, I plan to go on to law school and go into real estate or criminal law.

Michaela McHenry

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Dublin, Ohio

I’m currently interning with Senator Jon Husted’s U.S. Senate Campaign, where I assist with finance and data organization. I analyze donor lists, manage Excel databases, and help coordinate fundraising outreach. This experience has helped me build skills in data management, communication, and political engagement while seeing firsthand how campaigns operate behind the scenes.

I’m involved in Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity and Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society. Phi Alpha Delta has connected me with other students who share my passion for law and advocacy, and it has helped me build professional skills through fundraising and networking. Pi Sigma Alpha has allowed me to engage more deeply with political science beyond the classroom and connect with students who care about public service and policy. Both organizations have strengthened my commitment to leadership and civic engagement.

After graduation, I plan to attend Law School in the Fall of 2026. I’m passionate about strengthening protections for children and survivors of domestic violence through both legal representation and legislative reform. Long term, I hope to work on drafting and promoting laws that create safer environments for families and ensure that vulnerable voices are heard.

Jack Mediate

Major: Political Science and Public Affairs
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Bay Village, Ohio

I was lucky enough to attend Leiden University in the Netherlands through the Department of Political Science's exchange partnership in Spring of 2024! My experience was very fulfilling; I gained fresh perspectives on topics in PoliSci of great interest to me such as the history and politics of the European Union, Contemporary Political Philosophy, understanding AI's impact in the social science sector, and more. Leiden itself with its vibrant social life and picturesque scenery was the perfect place to meet fellow international students, and its location benefitted from being so close to the Hague, the heart of Dutch politics and home to LU's Institute of Political Science. I am strongly considering a return to Leiden University to pursue a master's degree following my graduation in 2026!

I'm heavily involved in Ohio State Model United Nations as a Head Delegate! I've been a member of our traveling team for 4 years now, having competed in all sorts of committees, from realistic General Assemblies, intense specialized orgs, and ad-hoc crises. We've been lucky enough to travel to conferences in Boston, DC, San Francisco, Montreal, and many more, often in the same year! Our club is very welcoming to new members, focused on instilling confidence in public speaking, debate, and writing to all those interested, as well as providing excellent opportunities to make friends and learn more about yourself and other global perspectives! We meet on Mondays at 5:30pm in the Derby Basement, stop by and say hi!

Go Buckeyes!

Artur Mikhlin

Major: Political Science and Public Management, Leadership & Policy
Minor: History
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Hillsboro, Missouri

I decided to become a political science major because of my fascination with governance and the idea to live for a cause greater than myself. Currently I am interning for Congressman Warren Davidson in his D.C. office. Working on the Hill solidified my interest in public service on the federal level. 

After graduation I plan to work on Capitol Hill or in the Governor’s mansion after graduation, for 3-5 years, after which I will return to Missouri and go to law school.

My advice to future Buckeyes is to network and utilize the alumni network Ohio State Provides. 

Aly Murphy

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Greenfield, Ohio

I chose to major in Political Science because of my passion for policy, leadership, and public service, especially in advocating for rural communities and the agricultural industry. Growing up in Appalachia, I saw firsthand how government decisions impact everyday lives. This major equips me with the skills to navigate public policy, law, and governance, preparing me for success in law school and a future career in the federal government to ensure that rural voices are heard and represented.

In the Fall of 2024, I was a public affairs intern at the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) through the Washington Academic Internship Program. I took governance and public policy courses while living in Washington, D.C. and experiencing the federal government first-hand. On campus, I am in Pi Sigma Alpha and am also in Undergraduate Student Government serving in the executive branch as a social media coordinator in the Communications Committee.

I plan to attend law school right after graduating from college. After law school I plan to move to DC and work in the federal government before returning home to eventually run for office in Ohio's 2nd Congressional District.

Megan O'Connor

Major: Political Science
Minor: Public Policy
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

I am a member of the Ohio State Women’s Rowing Team and OSU’s Ohio Innocence Project chapter.

Currently I am an intern on Nan Whaley’s campaign for Governor of Ohio. My senior year of high school I volunteered for Kate Schroder’s campaign for Ohio’s first congressional district as a member of her field team. I also try to work the polls during elections. I worked as a poll worker during the 2020 election!

Following graduation, I hope to work on campaigns around the country to gain experience, meet new people, and support progressive politicians. Eventually I aspire to do work pertaining to legislation and policy, either for a politician, company, or lobbying organization.

Ohio State has given me the opportunities to challenge myself academically and personally as I have explored new avenues of learning and viewing the world around me.

Aanika Pathak

Majors: Political Science and Economics
Graduation Year: 2028
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

I have always had an interest on global issues going on, and the ability to major in Political Science has allowed me to learn how to further analyze these issues and develop my research and writing skills for the future. Furthermore, the Ohio State political science department allows students to have opportunities to get real life experience, such as interacting with guest speakers, internships, and study abroad opportunities. 

I really enjoyed Professor Chris Gelpi's Political Science 2300 Intro to Foreign Policy, as it really made me realize how much I want to potentially pursue a career in international relations and diplomacy. The course challenged me to think critically about how states interact, why conflicts emerge, and how diplomacy can prevent them.

I am currently studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain, and have had the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture, language, and meet so many amazing people. Furthermore, being able to learn Spanish, Catalan, and the history of the region has been vital in understanding certain political conflicts in the region such as discussions over whether Catalonia should be an independent state or not. 

I am planning on going to law school after graduation.

Ben Prochaska

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Seville, Ohio

I interned with Congresswoman Shontel Brown in Washington D.C. in Summer 2024. Rep. Brown's staff took me under their wings and trusted me with essential work, attending briefings, writing issue memos, helping prepare committee briefing binders, and taking pictures of the Congresswoman at the Capitol.

I was President of Students Demand Action at Ohio State University from May 2022 to May 2024. My advice to future students is to work at the Statehouse! It's right by campus, it's good experience, and they can always use more help.

Olivia Puzon

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2025

I interned at The Ohio State House with State Representative Phil Robinson. I loved this internship as I got to experience the legislative process up close. I actually felt like I was contributing because I wasn’t doing just busy work, I was actually right alongside the Representative and his Legislative Aid.

I am involved with Pi Sigma Alpha! It’s a great way to network with and learn from people who are in the political science field. It also is a great way to be connected with other political science majors.

After graduation I am going to Temple University for law school with a focus on public interest and civil rights law. 

Daniel Raines

Majors: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2029
Hometown: Mount Vernon, Ohio

I chose to major in political science because I’m interested in learning how the world around me works, so that I can help change it. 

Mackenzie Sapp

Majors: Political Science and International Relations
Minor: French
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Powell, Ohio

I am a Governmental Relations Committee Representative in the Undergraduate Student Government, as well as a member of the Guiding Eyes for the Blind club on campus. This semester, I am participating in Semester of Service, a volunteering project managed by the University Honors Program with a focus on LGBTQ+ legislative reform. I work as an Operations Assistant in the Ohio Union, and in my free time I like to attend the group fitness classes offered at the OSU gyms.

I am currently interning with Equality Ohio, a nonprofit organization based out of Columbus. I work in a coalition with other Columbus nonprofits to write testimony, plan events, and spread information in regard to honesty in education.

After undergrad, I plan to attend law school, earn my JD, and become a civil rights lawyer. Eventually, I might consider running for public office!

Gabe Schechtman

Majors: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

I chose to major in political science because I wanted to learn more about the systems that control our world, and how to manipulate those systems in order to help people who don't have what they need to survive and thrive in life. 

One of my favorite political science courses was Vladimir Kogan's Urban Government Class. Dr. Kogan teaches about what makes or breaks the education of a child's life, and how even one side of the street can change the education of millions of children. I have used the knowledge I have learned in my Political Science classes in La Clinica Latina to inform my decision making in talking with patients and understanding the political background of many immigrants around the world. 

Ethan Sergio

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Granville, Ohio

On campus, I attend many after-class seminars. Off campus, I have an internship with a start-up political action committee.

I have an internship with the Licking County Democrats Club and with Voices for Juvenile Justice in Columbus, Ohio. We are currently working on proposing legislature for the Ohio General Assembly for juvenile justice reform.

I plan to work with a lobbyist organization to reform the prison system and provide more aid to those who struggle with addiction.

Being a student at Ohio State has given me something in my life to be proud of, and I hope everyone has the same experience in college that I have had. OSU has allowed me to see so many new perspectives and greatly broaden my horizons.

Andrew Smith

Major: Political Science and Public Management, Leadership, and Policy
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Pickerington, Ohio

I chose Political Science because I wanted to learn more about modern societal issues, and the systems that shape those issues. By studying how governments work, I want to learn how to develop real solutions to current issues. After I graduate, I plan on attending law school, ideally at a top program so that I can pursue a career in public service and law. I want to develop skills that help me make a meaningful impact in law and public policy.

I am currently interning with the Licking County Prosecutor's Office, where I have been learning about the legal system. Since I plan to attend law school, this internship has been very important for me. It has helped me understand how law functions in practice, and it has shown me the kind of work that I will be doing in the future. I am also involved in two student organizations. The first is the Phi Alpha Delta pre-law fraternity at Ohio State University. This organization provides guidance and resources that help students prepare to enter law school. The second organization is LSAT Learners, which is a group that I co-founded and am currently serving in as Vice President. Our organization helps students prepare for the LSAT by sharing study materials and offering advice to maximize their scores.

If you want to truly understand modern issues, OSU is the right place for you. OSU's Political Science program is exceptional. The professors genuinely care about their students, and they will go out of their way to support your success. Charles Smith's political science course made an impact on me. His lecturing style makes the content incredibly engaging and personal. For anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in law, this major provides a great foundation to the field. 

Lastly, as a Marine Corps veteran, I was worried that the transition into college life would be difficult. However, the Veterans Office at OSU has been incredibly supportive throughout that process. My advisors have also been very accommodating. Whenever they did not have an immediate answer about my GI Bill benefits, they always guided me in the right direction to help me succeed.

Lily Smith

Major: Political Science
Minor: Environmental, Economic, Development, and Sustainability minor
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: New Boston, New Hampshire

I am in LSS (law and society scholars) program and AWOW (Advocates for women of the world). I also volunteer back home over breaks at CareGivers of southern NH. 

I hope to become an Environmental Lawyer or work with Environmental Policy in a governmental position

I came to Ohio State not knowing anyone which I thought would be very hard for me, but it has been the greatest transition of my life.

Josie Speakman

Major: Political Science
Minor: Spanish and History
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Stoutsville, Ohio

I currently serve as a Constituent Aide for the Ohio House Democratic Caucus. Previously I was an intern for House Minority Leader Russo, and over the summer I worked as a Legislative Page. I love working directly with legislators and constituents to tackle the issues affecting Ohioans. I’ve had the opportunity to work session, create resource guides for districts, develop outreach materials, take meetings with Representatives, cover offices, and more!

I’m also involved with the College Democrats here at Ohio State, and I currently serve as the Communications Director. Last spring, I was inducted into the Pi Sigma Alpha Omicron Chapter of the National Political Science Honor Society, and this semester I started as a Student Aide for Dr. Smith’s Constitutional Law course! I am so grateful to go to a school that has provided me with so many opportunities to be involved and give back to our campus. 

After graduating I hope to attain my master’s degree in political science abroad and then head to Law School! One day I hope to live and work in Washington DC. 

Lauren Stafford

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2028
Hometown: Collierville, Tennessee

Currently, I work as an intern for Ohio Representative Isaacsohn. This internship allows me to sit in legislative meetings, and I do administrative work for the office. Working as an intern in a government office further instills in me the desire to pursue law and improve my community.

I am a member of the Undergraduate Student Government Black Caucus' Student Experience Committee. This organization allows me to connect with other black students on campus with similar interests and passions. Also, I love to work to improve the experiences of students on campus, which is what my committee is centered around.

After graduation, I intend to continue my education at law school. I want to be a lawyer and possible practice Public Interest law or even become a prosecutor.

Natalie Swallow

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2027
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

I chose to major in Political Science at Ohio State because I’ve always been passionate about leadership, values, and the direction of our country. I wanted a field that let me think critically about people, policy, and real-world issues. As an executive member of Turning Point USA at OSU, I care deeply about free speech, limited government, and standing up for what I believe in, even when it’s not the popular opinion on campus. Political Science allows me to strengthen my voice, understand how government and society function, and learn how to advocate effectively for the principles I value. It’s a major that connects with who I am and where I see myself going… someone who leads with conviction and aims to make a real impact.

I’m involved with Turning Point USA at Ohio State, where I serve as an executive member. Being part of this organization has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my college career because it’s given me a community of students who are passionate about free speech, limited government, and individual liberty. It’s also helped me grow as a leader from organizing events and discussions to engaging with people who have different viewpoints. I’ve learned how to communicate my beliefs confidently and respectfully while helping create a space for open political dialogue on campus.

After graduation, I plan to pursue a career in public affairs or political advocacy. I’m passionate about using my voice to make a difference, whether that’s through media, policy work, or eventually running for office. My goal is to promote the values I believe in, encourage civic engagement, and help bridge the gap between young people and politics by showing that leadership starts with speaking up and staying informed.

My advice to prospective Political Science students is to stay open-minded and engaged. Do not be afraid of different perspectives because they will challenge you to think critically and grow. Everyone should get involved on campus and take classes that connect to what you care about. The more you engage here at Ohio State, the more rewarding this major becomes.

Paul Topalov

Major: Political Science
Minor: Russian
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Sidney, Ohio

I am involved in the United Macedonian Diaspora & Russian Student Association.

I am on the Pre-Law Track and have a goal of working in foreign policy between the United States and the countries within the Balkan Peninsula.

Luke Vander Vort

Major: Political Science
Minor: Russian
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota

I am involved in Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity, Intramurals, Russian Student Organization, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. 

I am currently planning on working for the University Department of Public Safety, as well as possibly participating in an 8-week Russian summer immersion program.

I hope to work for the Federal Bureau of Investigation or CIA before going to law school to pursue a J.D or LLM.

Alexis Wade

Major: Political Science (Pre-Law)
Graduation Year: 2026

There is no community like the Buckeye community. No matter where you come from or where you want to end up, there is an opportunity for you to thrive here. I have made so many meaningful social and professional relations from my time within the Political Science department and I could not imagine my experience being anywhere else. These people will always support you, and you are bound to get where you want to go with a community like this behind you.

I am currently the Co-Chief of Staff of the Undergraduate Student Government and an intern for the Office of the City Manager of the City of Dublin. 

Upon graduating in May of 2026, I intend on enrolling in law school and pursuing my JD and MPA. Following graduation, I would like to practice law, possibly in the field of Intellectual Property.

Alexandra Webb

Major: Political Science and Journalism
Minor: Communications
Graduation Year: 2025
Hometown: Newark, Ohio

I am the chair of Community and Wellness along with Backburner Sketch Comedy. I am also interning at Millennial Action Project. I have also been the chair of sustainability along with being in 4 Paws for Ability freshmen year.

I plan on becoming a political journalist.

Lauryn Zheng

Major: Political Science
Graduation Year: 2028
Hometown: East Brunswick, NJ

I chose to major in Political Science mainly because I am a Pre-Law student and planning to attend law school after undergrad. I was interested in the sociological side of law and within the political sphere, especially in the justice system. I also thought Political Science would best prepare me for law school due to the focuses on critical thinking, theory, public speaking, reading comprehension, and writing. 

Professor Lawrence Baum and Professor/Advisor Charles William Smith have both made positive impacts on my life as a student in Political Science. I took Professor Baum's Women and the Law course (POLITSC 4138), and I was very impressed by how Professor Baum really involved the students in class through discussion. I felt as though you could genuinely tell that Professor Baum enjoyed teaching and interacting with his classes. There was an amazing facilitation of civil discourse within the course, as well as a ton of support outside of class time. In fact, Professor Baum was the first professor that I felt comfortable enough to go to office hours for. A year later, he still recognized me at a Political Science event, and I plan to take another one of his courses in my next few years at tOSU. I also took Charles' course on Gun Politics (POLITSC 4139E - embedded honors section). I definitely recommend this course with Charles because it really helped me get to know him as a professor and as my advisor. The embedded honors section allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the class content and gave me the opportunity to speak up about my opinions in a smaller group. Charles is very supportive and truly one of the most interesting and engaging lecturers I have experienced at tOSU so far. 

I am currently an intern in the Arts and Sciences Honors Program here at tOSU. I am a peer mentor in the program where I am responsible for mentoring a group of freshman students in their survey course. I attend weekly group training sessions to prepare for the survey class, advise students on certain conflicts they may have, and plan and facilitate at least two peer mentor events. I also have an additional project that I work on with my internship advisor. My current project consists of curating some type of master resource page that will provide a more accessible way for students to figure out what resources they have available to them. I am also planning to help manage the new social media account for the program. Overall, my internship experience has been very positive and not as time consuming as I would have expected. I love being a peer mentor, and I am grateful that I have this opportunity to work on a separate project that can help a larger student audience in the long run. 

After graduation, I plan on attending law school. Initially, I wanted to be a lawyer in either family or environmental law. However, after taking more courses I realized that there were a lot more options for me, especially after attending law school. At the moment, I am looking into careers in public relations, legal consulting, and legal information (law librarian). 

I would say that you should utilize as many resources as possible here at tOSU. That includes professors, advisors, internships, jobs, research, clubs, organizations, majors, minors, and classes. I also think that it's important to branch out of your comfort zone, even though it sounds scary, because that is how you gain a more diverse perspective. Look into taking a minor in a different school or field. Join a club or organization that is outside of your major or pre-professional degree. In my case, I added a minor in Italian and a minor in Women, Gender, and Public Policy. I am also in the Arts and Sciences Student Council, Euchre Club, Community Council, and the National Residence Hall Honorary. From these other activities and academic environments, I have had the opportunity to meet people I would have never crossed paths with. I am exposed to a whole new world of experience, knowledge, ideas, and people. This is super important not just within the Political Science major, but also as a student. 

I really think that Political Science is one of the more versatile majors and a great community and environment to be in. I also have a job in the Political Science Department as one of the Advisory Board Assistants.