Senior Spotlight: Cierra Phillips
Cierra Phillips is a political science student graduating this year. Read the below Q&A to learn about why she chose political science, her experience in the program, and her future plans.
Why did you choose to study political science at UMN?
I chose to study political science after becoming highly involved in debate and extemporaneous speaking on international politics in high school. I was intrigued by political theory and its application to current events. Furthermore, I find that understanding the micro and macro impacts of politics in everyday life is vital to being an informed and productive citizen.
In what ways were you involved on campus and in political science?
In terms of political science, I was involved in the Distinguished Undergraduate Research Program in the department under Professor Michael Minta. There I analyzed Congressional attention to the COVID-19 pandemic. My personal research through my honors thesis is on The Effects of Legal Education on the Political Attitudes on Lawyers.
My involvement outside of the political science program includes being a board member on the Student Unions & Activities Student Advisory Board, a co-founding chair on the West Bank Outreach Committee, a team lead in the Honors Mentor Program, a Pre-Law Mentor, a member of Emerging Leaders in the Law, and a TA in the Honors NEXUS One Program.
What were your favorite political science classes?
I adored POL 3319: Education and the American Dream with Professor Abernathy and POL 4502W: The Supreme Court, Civil Liberties, and Civil Rights with Professor Johnson. Both the subjects and the professors' teaching styles were so fascinating. I constantly felt engaged and my interest never waned.
What was your favorite part of being a political science student?
My favorite part of being a political science student is that the major promoted discussion and debate in the classroom. I find that conversation and hearing from other perspectives promotes learning in ways that lectures on their own cannot.
How would you describe your overall experience?
The three years I spent in university turned out to be a very interesting time to be a political science student. It might have to do with the fact that we are living through major historical events and rapidly changing geopolitical relationships, but it's honestly anyone's guess. Overall, my specific experience was enlightening and intellectually stimulating.
What are your plans following graduation? How did political science prepare you?
I plan to attend the ASU Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law this fall to obtain my Juris Doctor. Political science offers information and perspectives on how governments and legal systems operate, providing a great foundation of knowledge for law school.
What advice would you give to current or prospective students?
Get involved in research, departmental programs, and internships as soon as possible. Producing work and getting involved earlier rather than later can open a lot of professional doors for you.
