Student Spotlight: Paul Goff

Paul Goff is a senior double majoring in political science and English. Read the below Q&A to learn more about him and his experience as a political science student.

Where is your hometown?

Northfield, MN.

Why did you choose to study political science?

I grew up in a very politically active family, and so, while that part definitely rubbed off on me, what truly makes me passionate about politics is the transformative role that public policy has in up-lifting the needy and less fortunate.

What has been your favorite POL course at the University of Minnesota?

POL 3994: Directed Research: Distinguished Undergraduate Research Program (DURP) with Professor Michael Minta. He is a joy to work with and has been transformative for me.

What advice would you give to prospective political science students?

I would tell them to show up every day to class and school looking for something to do better, whether it be a new perspective to understand, a skill to grasp, or an opportunity. The biggest leaps that I have made here during my time at the University of Minnesota were when I took the initiative, ran with an idea even when I thought it would lead nowhere, had that conversation with a professor even when I was nervous. Calculated ambition will get you far.

What do you hope to do after graduation? How has studying political science prepared you?

I am currently working at the American Council For Life Insurers, a top-rated trade association within their Federal Relations Department, where I work as a financial analyst.

With its emphasis on quantitative methodology, self-directed research, and empirical research, I can definitely say that the University of Minnesota political science department prepared me in a way that has made me stand out as both an applicant and employee.

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