Nate Cole, Class of 2023

Political Science Major

If you're considering a degree in political science, let me tell you about my amazing experience at St. Bonaventure University. I graduated from Livonia High School with an interest in political science, but unsure of where a degree would take me. After four years in the program, I have found a path towards a great career in public administration.

The education at St. Bonaventure was crucial to my acceptance at the Maxwell School at Syracuse University, where I will pursue a Master's in Public Administration. The political science program at St. Bonaventure taught me both quantitative skills and political theory, which I greatly enjoyed. Our capstone research projects effectively showcased our quantitative skills and were a fun and rewarding experience. My project investigated the relationship between a decrease in economic growth and an increase in polarization. My research into this question taught me so much, and the ability to conduct my own research made the process so interesting.

Additionally, the political theory classes at St. Bonaventure were just as interesting. Political thought and American political thought provided valuable lessons that went all the way back to ancient Greece, helping me build a thorough understanding of political philosophy. Combining both theory and quantitative skills made this program enjoyable for me and has helped carve out a path towards my future.

I am eager to continue my academic journey at the Maxwell School at Syracuse University and I am truly grateful for the education I received at St. Bonaventure University.

Alberto Calderon, Class of 2023

My name is Alberto Calderon and I am senior Political Science major with a minor in Spanish here at St. Bonaventure University. I am originally from Long Island, New York. Although being relatively far in distance from home, I toured St. Bonaventure and immediately knew that it was the right place for me. I applied to the university with hopes of attaining a political science degree and attending law school afterwards.

I have absolutely loved my time here at St. Bonaventure. I have formed lifelong friendships and gained an invaluable education. In particular, the Political Science department here has given me the necessary tools in order to continue my education. I cannot thank Dr. Lambert, Dr. Kubal, Dr. Tillman, and Dr. Zabad enough for equipping me with critical and creative thinking skills, better analyzing and reasoning methods, improved communication, open-mindedness and problem-solving, and an overall better understanding of how to carry myself as a true professional. These skills and tools will help me further my education and will prove to be essential in any professional work setting.

After St. Bonaventure, I plan to attend law school. I am currently in the process of taking the Law School Admissions Test and applying to various law schools. I firmly believe that the Political Science program here at St. Bonaventure properly and fully prepared me for the stages after college life.

What I love the most about the program is that I was able to learn from amazing professors every single day. Not only are they tremendously knowledgeable in their respective fields, but they also really got to know and understand me as a person. They always made sure that I was doing well mentally as life as a college student can be a bit overwhelming and intense at times. However, they were always there to express their support and encouragement towards myself and other students.

As I plan to graduate from St. Bonaventure in a couple months in May, my time here at the university and within the Political Science program has been both an irreplaceable and unforgettable experience that I hope many others have the opportunity to partake in.

Kyle Kessler, Class of 2023

Political Science Major

The Political Science Program at St. Bonaventure University is unique in that it is able to offer a small, close-knit community where professors and students are able to interact frequently. I benefitted from classes where I had a personal relationship with the professor as well as many of my classmates. In particular, Dr. Kubal and Dr. Tillman helped me open many doors by connecting me with older students and alumni, and they offered advice on anything I could ask. Dr. Lambert and Dr. Zabad helped me earlier on to build the foundations I needed to succeed in the Political Science Program.

Next year, I will be attending Gonzaga University School of Law in Spokane, Washington. The Political Science Program prepared me for law school in a number of different ways. The classes about the courts, legal systems, and politics helped prepare me for work expected of me in law school. My professors through my four years also offered guidance and support whenever I needed it. Taking classes in constitutional and international law helped me realize the passion I had for the law and gave me a solid foundation heading into law school.