bmf
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I’ve been getting these calls for years—some are real people, some are just robots talking at me. I never gave out my number to anyone, but here they are, calling me about town council races. I started letting everything go to voicemail unless it’s someone I know.
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Okay, if you’re just getting into this stuff, start with Knock Down the House on Netflix—it’s about AOC and other women running grassroots campaigns. Super inspiring. And 13th is a must-watch. It connects mass incarceration with policy history in such a powerful way.
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Political Songs That Still Resonate—Across Generations
Whether you’re at a protest, reflecting on the state of the world, or just looking for songs that say something, these tracks continue to hit hard:
🇺🇸 Classic American Protest Anthems
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“Fortunate Son” – Creedence Clearwater Revival
– Vietnam-era critique of class and war. Still hits home in discussions on who gets sent to fight. -
“The Times They Are A-Changin’” – Bob Dylan
– Timeless anthem for civil rights and generational shifts. -
“This Land Is Your Land” – Woody Guthrie
– Often sung in school, but the original lyrics criticize inequality and land ownership.
🎸 Rock & Alternative Rebellion
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“Killing in the Name” – Rage Against the Machine
– Anti-authoritarian and anti-police brutality message that remains fire at rallies. -
“American Idiot” – Green Day
– Post-9/11 political critique wrapped in punk-pop energy. -
“Zombie” – The Cranberries
– Inspired by political conflict in Northern Ireland, but its emotion and power are universal.
🎤 Hip-Hop and Modern Protest
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“Alright” – Kendrick Lamar
– Became an unofficial BLM anthem. Hopeful and defiant. -
“This Is America” – Childish Gambino
– A layered and unsettling take on race, gun violence, and spectacle in America. -
“Fight the Power” – Public Enemy
– Still one of the boldest statements in hip-hop history. Direct, loud, unapologetic.
🌎 International Voices
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“Beds Are Burning” – Midnight Oil (Australia)
– A powerful plea for Indigenous land rights that transcends borders. -
“Get Up, Stand Up” – Bob Marley & The Wailers
– A global anthem for resistance, human rights, and pride.
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This reply was modified 2 weeks, 1 day ago by bmf.
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How to Get Involved in Soup Kitchen Volunteering in Orange County, CA
Getting involved in soup kitchen and food pantry volunteering in Orange County, California, is a vital way to make a direct impact on food insecurity, which affects more residents than many realize. Here’s a guide to finding opportunities and making a meaningful contribution:
📌 1. Identifying Key Organizations & Volunteer Hubs in OC:
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Major Food Banks & Comprehensive Service Providers:
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Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County (feedoc.org): This is the largest food bank in OC and the central hub for food collection and distribution to hundreds of local non-profits, including soup kitchens and pantries. They have robust volunteer programs for sorting and packing food, and can also direct you to partner agencies needing help.
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Orange County Rescue Mission (rescuemission.org): Provides extensive services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, including meals, shelter, and addiction recovery programs. They rely heavily on volunteers for various roles.
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Illumination Foundation (ifhomeless.org): Offers targeted services to disrupt the cycle of homelessness, including recuperative care and housing where meals are provided. Volunteer needs often include meal support.
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Grandma’s House of Hope (grandmashouseofhope.org): Provides shelter, food, and support services to vulnerable women, children, and families.
Volunteer Connection Platforms:
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OneOC (oneoc.org): A key resource for connecting volunteers with non-profit organizations across Orange County, including those focused on hunger relief.
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VolunteerMatch (volunteermatch.org): A national database where you can search for local opportunities by entering your city/zip code in Orange County and keywords like “soup kitchen,” “food pantry,” or “hunger.”
Local Community & Faith-Based Initiatives:
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Many cities within Orange County (e.g., Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Garden Grove) have smaller, grassroots soup kitchens, food pantries, and meal programs run by local churches, temples, mosques, and community centers. A search like “food pantry volunteer [city name] CA” can uncover these.
📌 2. The Typical Process to Become a Volunteer:
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Online Research & Application:
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Visit the websites of organizations that interest you. Look for a “Volunteer,” “Get Involved,” or “Ways to Help” section.
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Most will have an online application form or a portal where you can create a volunteer profile.
Orientation & Training:
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Many organizations, especially larger ones, require new volunteers to attend an orientation session (these can be virtual or in-person).1 This will cover their mission, safety guidelines, food handling procedures (if applicable), and what to expect.
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On-the-job training for specific tasks is usually provided.
Background Checks & Age Requirements:
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Some positions, particularly those involving ongoing work with vulnerable populations or handling finances, may require a background check.
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Age limits vary. Many direct service roles prefer volunteers to be 18 or older. However, many organizations have opportunities for teenagers (often 15/16+), sometimes with parental consent or accompaniment. Some also offer family volunteer days suitable for younger children in specific roles (like packing food boxes).
Scheduling: Once approved, you can typically sign up for shifts based on the organization’s needs and your availability. Consistency is highly valued.
📌 3. What to Expect & How to Maximize Your Contribution:
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Common Volunteer Tasks:
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Sorting and boxing donated food at a food bank.
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Preparing ingredients, cooking, and assembling meals.
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Serving meals to guests in a dining room setting.
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Setting up and cleaning dining areas and kitchens.
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Assisting with client check-in and registration at food pantries.
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Stocking shelves and helping clients “shop” in pantry settings.
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Helping with food drives or special events.
Being Prepared:
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Dress comfortably in casual clothing and always wear closed-toe shoes.
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Be prepared to stand for periods and possibly do some light lifting, depending on the role.
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Approach the work with empathy, respect, and a non-judgmental attitude.
The Political Dimension of Your Service:
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Understand that your service, while directly helping individuals, also sheds light on systemic issues within Orange County like the high cost of living, wage stagnation, and gaps in social safety nets.
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Use your experience to become a more informed advocate. Many of these organizations also engage in advocacy for policies that address root causes of hunger and poverty.
💬 Final Thought for Volunteering in Orange County:
Engaging with soup kitchens and food pantries in Orange County offers a crucial opportunity to provide direct support where it’s greatly needed, often in communities where poverty is less visible but deeply felt. It’s a chance to connect with your neighbors, understand the complexities of hunger in a suburban landscape, and potentially fuel your passion for advocating for more just and equitable local and national policies. Your time and effort can truly make a difference.
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Tips for Getting the Most Reliable Coverage
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➼ Consider subscribing to at least one premium service for deeper analysis during important elections
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This reply was modified 2 months, 3 weeks ago by bmf.
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This reply was modified 2 months, 3 weeks ago by
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IQ, Political Orientation, and Voting Behavior: A Multifaceted Examination
Introduction:
The relationship between IQ, political orientation, and voting behavior is a complex and often controversial topic. Studies have attempted to explore this connection, but interpreting the findings requires careful consideration of various factors. It is essential to avoid oversimplification and recognize the limitations of such research.
Key Findings and Considerations:
1. Correlation vs. Causation:
→ Many studies have indicated a correlation between higher IQ and certain political orientations, particularly liberal or progressive viewpoints.
→ However, it is vital to emphasize that correlation does not imply causation. A higher IQ does not directly cause a specific political ideology.
→ Other factors, such as education, socioeconomic status, and access to information, play significant roles in shaping political beliefs.
2. Cognitive Complexity and Political Ideology:
→ Some researchers argue that individuals with higher cognitive abilities may be more comfortable with complex and abstract political ideas.
→ This may lead to a greater tendency to embrace ideologies that challenge traditional norms or require a more nuanced understanding of social issues.
→ Conversely, some studies show that people with lower cognitive complexity may gravitate to more simple explanations of political events.
3. Information Processing and Political Engagement:
→ IQ can influence how individuals process and evaluate political information.
→ Those with higher cognitive abilities may be more likely to engage in critical thinking, seek out diverse perspectives, and evaluate evidence objectively.
→ However, access to quality information and media literacy are also crucial factors in informed political decision-making.
4. Socioeconomic Factors and Education:
→ Socioeconomic background and educational attainment are strongly correlated with both IQ and political orientation.
→ Individuals from privileged backgrounds often have access to better educational opportunities, which can influence both cognitive development and political socialization.
→ It is essential to consider these confounding variables when interpreting studies on IQ and political behavior.
5. Limitations and Ethical Concerns:
→ IQ tests are not perfect measures of cognitive ability and can be culturally biased.
→ Using IQ as a predictor of political behavior can lead to harmful stereotypes and discriminatory practices.
→ It is crucial to approach this topic with sensitivity and avoid generalizations that reinforce social inequalities.
6. Voting behavior complexity:
Voting behaviour is not simply based on intelligence. Many factors influence why someone votes a certain way. Family influence, community influence, religious beliefs, and single issue voting are all examples of factors that can have a greater influence on a persons vote than their IQ.
Conclusion:
Studies on IQ and political orientation provide valuable insights into the cognitive factors that may influence political behavior. However, it is crucial to interpret these findings with caution and recognize the limitations of such research. Political beliefs are shaped by a multitude of factors, and IQ is only one piece of the puzzle. Promoting informed political engagement and ensuring equitable access to information are essential for a healthy democracy.
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Oh my goodness, CRMs… I just need something that keeps track of volunteers! Who’s done what, when they’re available, and how to contact them. I’ve heard good things about Zoho CRM’s free version, but honestly, I’m scared to even start. Is it going to be another thing I have to learn? I just need something simple. Please, something simple.
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Starting a nonprofit is essentially launching a business with a social mission. You need a clear business plan, a solid understanding of your target population, and a sustainable funding model. Don’t let the ‘nonprofit’ label fool you; it requires just as much strategic thinking and execution as any for-profit venture.
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Oh, the endless jargon. A nonprofit is a structure. A charity is a purpose. And a 501(c)(3) is the golden ticket to funding. You jump through hoops, fill out endless forms, and hope the IRS gods smile upon you. It’s the difference between existing and thriving, or so they say.
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Building a Nonprofit Website: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Define Your Goals and Audience:
Identify Objectives:
– What do you want your website to achieve? (e.g., increase donations, raise awareness, recruit volunteers, provide resources)
– Prioritize these objectives.
• Target Audience:
– Who are you trying to reach? (e.g., donors, volunteers, beneficiaries, community members)
– What are their needs and expectations?
– Consider the average age, and tech savviness of your target audience.
• Content Strategy:
– What information will you provide?
– How will you present it? (e.g., text, images, videos)
– Plan a site map, and the general structure of your pages.
2. Choose a Platform and Hosting:
• Content Management System (CMS):
– Consider user-friendly options like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace.
– Evaluate features, ease of use, and scalability.
– Consider if your organization has someone who can maintain the website.
• Hosting:
– Select a reliable hosting provider with good uptime and security.
– Factor in bandwidth and storage needs.
– Research hosting companies that specialize in non profit organizations.
• Domain Name:
– Choose a domain name that is easy to remember and reflects your organization’s name.
– Secure your domain name and any relevant variations.
3. Design and Development:
• Responsive Design:
– Ensure your website looks good on all devices (desktops, tablets, smartphones).
• Visual Appeal:
– Use high-quality images and videos.
– Maintain a consistent brand identity.
– Consider hiring a graphic designer, or using stock photo sites.
• User Experience (UX):
– Make navigation intuitive and easy.
– Ensure fast loading times.
– Implement clear calls to action.
Accessibility:
– Adhere to accessibility guidelines (WCAG) to make your website accessible to everyone.
– Ensure proper use of alt text on images, and good color contrast.
4. Content Creation and Management:
• Compelling Storytelling:
– Share your organization’s mission and impact through engaging content.
– Use testimonials and success stories.
• Regular Updates:
– Keep your website content fresh and relevant.
– Add blog posts, news articles, and event updates.
• SEO Optimization:
– Use relevant keywords to improve search engine rankings.
– Optimize page titles and meta descriptions.
5. Testing and Launch:
• Thorough Testing:
– Test your website on different browsers and devices.
– Check for broken links and errors.
– Have multiple people test the site.
• Security:
– Install security plugins and SSL certificates.
– Implement regular backups.
• Launch and Promotion:
– Announce your new website to your audience.
– Promote it on social media and through email newsletters.
6. Ongoing Maintenance and Analysis:
• Website Analytics:
– Use Google Analytics to track website traffic and user behavior.
– Analyze data to identify areas for improvement.
• Regular Updates:
– Update plugins and themes.
– Address security vulnerabilities.
• Feedback:
– Ask for feedback from users and make necessary adjustments.
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Look, I’ve seen a lot of these systems come and go. Honestly, it depends on your needs. For smaller organizations, something like [Hypothetical Software Name] ‘SimpleFund’ might be enough. It’s affordable, but don’t expect too many bells and whistles. If you’re dealing with major donors and complex campaigns, you’ll need something more robust, like [Hypothetical Software Name] ‘ApexGiving’. Just remember, no system is perfect. You’ll always have to adapt, and training your staff is crucial. And remember the price increases after the first year, read the fine print.
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Choosing the right web host is essential for a nonprofit’s online presence. Several factors come into play, including budget, technical needs, and website traffic. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed decision:
Key Considerations for Nonprofits:
- 1. Budget: Nonprofits often operate on tight budgets. Look for hosts offering discounts, free credits, or special pricing for 501(c)(3) organizations.
- 2. Reliability and Uptime: Your website needs to be accessible consistently. Choose a host with a proven track record of high uptime (ideally 99.9% or higher).
- 3. Security: Protecting donor information and sensitive data is paramount. Ensure the host offers robust security features like SSL certificates, firewalls, and regular backups.
- 4. Scalability: As your organization grows, your website’s needs may change. Select a host that allows you to easily upgrade your resources (storage, bandwidth, etc.) as needed.
- 5. Customer Support: Responsive and helpful customer support is crucial, especially if you have limited technical expertise. Look for hosts offering multiple support channels (phone, email, chat).
- 6. Integration with Tools: Your website should seamlessly integrate with other nonprofit tools, such as donation platforms, email marketing services, and CRM systems.
Types of Web Hosting:
- 1. Shared Hosting: Multiple websites share the same server resources. This is the most affordable option but can have performance limitations. Suitable for small nonprofits with basic website needs.
- 2. VPS Hosting (Virtual Private Server): A server is divided into multiple virtual servers, each with its own dedicated resources. Offers better performance and security than shared hosting but is more expensive. A good option for growing nonprofits.
- 3. Cloud Hosting: Uses a network of servers to distribute resources. Highly scalable and reliable, ideal for organizations with fluctuating traffic. Often comes with higher costs.
- 4. Dedicated Hosting: Your website has its own dedicated server. Provides maximum control, performance, and security but is the most expensive option. Typically unnecessary for most nonprofits.
Recommended Web Hosts (Examples – Always research current offerings):
- 1. Bluehost: Popular and affordable shared hosting provider with introductory offers.
- 2. HostGator: Another well-known shared hosting option with various plans.
- 3. SiteGround: Known for excellent customer support and performance.
- 4. AWS (Amazon Web Services): Cloud hosting platform with nonprofit discounts and a wide range of services.
- 5. Google Cloud: Similar to AWS, offering cloud hosting solutions and nonprofit programs.
Due Diligence:
- 1. Read Reviews: Check independent reviews and comparisons of web hosting providers.
- 2. Compare Pricing: Don’t just focus on the initial price. Consider renewal rates and potential add-on costs.
- 3. Test Support: Contact the support team before signing up to gauge their responsiveness and helpfulness.
- 4. Check for Nonprofit Discounts: Many hosts offer special pricing for 501(c)(3) organizations.
By carefully considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can find the best web host to support your nonprofit’s mission and online presence.
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Jobs You Can Pursue With a Political Science Degree
A political science degree offers a broad range of career opportunities that span both the public and private sectors. Below are some key career paths, along with the skills and qualifications that can help you succeed in each role.
1. Government and Public Policy
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Legislative Aide
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What They Do: Assist lawmakers in drafting bills, researching policy issues, and managing constituent relations.
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Skills Needed: Strong writing, communication, and research abilities.
Public Affairs Specialist
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What They Do: Work with government agencies or elected officials to communicate policies, initiatives, and public outreach strategies.
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Skills Needed: Excellent public speaking and media relations skills.
2. Political Consulting and Campaigns
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Campaign Manager
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What They Do: Oversee all aspects of political campaigns, including strategy, fundraising, and voter outreach.
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Skills Needed: Strong leadership, organizational, and strategic thinking.
Political Consultant
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What They Do: Advise candidates on campaign strategies, messaging, and public relations.
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Skills Needed: Expertise in public opinion, media, and voter behavior.
3. International Relations and Diplomacy
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Foreign Service Officer (Diplomat)
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What They Do: Represent your country abroad, manage diplomatic relationships, and promote national interests.
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Skills Needed: Strong understanding of international law, cultural sensitivity, and negotiation skills.
Intelligence Analyst
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What They Do: Gather and analyze information related to national security, military intelligence, or foreign threats.
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Skills Needed: Analytical skills, critical thinking, and knowledge of global politics.
4. Nonprofit and Advocacy
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Nonprofit Administrator
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What They Do: Oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations, often with a focus on social, environmental, or political issues.
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Skills Needed: Leadership, fundraising, and project management.
Policy Analyst
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What They Do: Research and evaluate policies, then provide recommendations for changes or improvements.
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Skills Needed: Strong analytical skills and the ability to communicate complex information to a non-expert audience.
5. Media and Public Relations
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Public Relations Specialist
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What They Do: Handle communications between government agencies or political figures and the public, including managing crises and crafting key messages.
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Skills Needed: Communication, media relations, and crisis management skills.
Journalist/Political Correspondent
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What They Do: Report on political events, analyze policies, and provide commentary.
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Skills Needed: Research, writing, and investigative skills.
Final Thoughts
A political science degree offers a wide variety of career opportunities in government, advocacy, media, and the private sector. Whether you’re drawn to influencing public policy, working with government agencies, or taking on roles in the nonprofit sector, this degree provides you with the critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills needed to succeed.
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Political thrillers don’t always need to be about the current day; some of the most gripping stories come from historical political intrigue. I highly recommend The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré—it’s a fantastic, tense Cold War novel that brings the human cost of espionage to life. Then there’s The Secret History by Donna Tartt, where the political tension comes in a more subtle way, through the manipulation of a close-knit academic circle. Both are brilliant examples of how power, trust, and betrayal intersect.
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Getting your foot in the door for a political science career can be so exciting! Entry-level jobs in political science can range from working as a research assistant for think tanks, to joining a campaign as a volunteer coordinator. There are also opportunities in government offices, like serving as a legislative assistant or working for public policy groups. These roles give you an amazing chance to learn on the job and build connections in the political world. Make sure to network and keep an eye on internship openings—it’s a great way to get started!
