Student Spotlight: Grace Marchand
Grace Marchand is a senior double-majoring in political science and sociology of law, criminology, & justice. Read the below Q&A to learn more about her and her experiences as a political science student.
Where is your hometown?
Duluth, MN.
Why did you choose to study political science?
I chose political science as a major because of the unique lens it provides you on every area of politics. Whether you're interested in political theory, history, international relations, or public policies, you will find something that interests and excites you in every avenue! I had no idea the endless possibilities and opportunities to engage with my passion for politics in a different way.
What communities do you belong to? How does this make your experience unique?
I am a student from a small town that wasn't very diverse, so it has been an amazing opportunity to get to come to the University of Minnesota to gain new perspectives and learn from people with different backgrounds to me. I have truly appreciated meeting students and professors that have life experiences and opinions on the world that have opened me up to new possibilities. I'm also the oldest child in my family. This meant that I was navigating college without an example or understanding of what that entailed. I had a lot of trial and error in this experience, but I'm grateful that I can now share some advice for my younger sibling and his college experience!
How are you involved on campus?
During the past two years, I was a member of the Minnesota Mock Trial Association. I was also president of the Students for Reproductive Freedom Club, board member of the College of Liberal Arts Student Board, and communications coordinator for the Human Rights Center at the University of Minnesota Law School.
What has been your favorite political science course?
I really enjoyed POL 3733: From Suffragettes to Senators: Gender Politics & Policy in the US with Professor Kathryn Pearson!
What is your favorite part of the political science department?
My favorite part of the political science department is the connections you build. I have met some amazing friends in the political science department is the connections you build. I have met some amazing friends in the political science department that have similar interests and perspectives as me. I've gotten to go through my undergrad program with some of the most intelligent, open-minded, and considerate students & professors that I never would have expected going into my degree. The network that you build is so important, and the political science department does a great job of creating relationships.
What do you hope to do after graduation? How has studying political science prepared you?
After graduation, I hope to go into public policy and/or political strategy and go back to school for a Master in Public Policy. Studying political science has deepened my passion for political engagement and understanding the robust world of politics. Every professor has provided me with a new opinion or subject surrounding politics, and I plan on taking each and every lesson with me to the professional world.
What advice would you give to prospective political science students?
My advice is to try as many different classes as possible! There are so many opportunities to study different areas of politics, so don't be afraid to dip your toe in everything. Just because you aren't familiar with a topic doesn't mean that you should shy away from it. This is the time to experiment and learn about as many topics as you can.
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