85% Of Young People Would Be More Inclined To Go Into Politics If They Had More Information

September 23, 2009

(PhysOrg.com) -- In a recent poll conducted by The George Washington University Graduate School of Public Management’s new PoliticsUnder30.org initiative, 85% of respondents answered yes when asked if having a comprehensive Web site with information about jobs in politics would encourage them to pursue a career in politics.

PoliticsUnder30.org, an effort by GW’s Graduate School of Political Management to support young people in politics, was recently launched to “help the young people of today become the political leaders of tomorrow,” said F. Christopher Arterton, dean of the school and professor of political management, of media and of advanced strategy. The Web site is targeted toward political science undergraduates across the country but will benefit students and professionals outside that group.

PoliticsUnder30.org was founded because the Graduate School of Political Management saw a need to educate and support young people pursuing a profession in politics. The Web site will include a range of interviews with speechwriters, members of Congress, lobbyists, elected officials, campaign managers, candidates and others. Viewers will have the opportunity to submit questions for video interviews, ensuring the site's content is targeted and relevant. There will also be an up-to-date job and event listing, including White House career guides and Capitol Hill staff structure charts.

As the poll suggests, access to a Web site with political career advice, information and listings, will help undergraduates navigate the D.C. political arena. Most importantly, this type of outlet does not currently exist. While there is a wealth of career resources available for young doctors and lawyers, no site to date has met the needs of aspiring politicos.

The George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management seeks to improve politics by educating its students and professionals in the tools, principles and values of participatory democracy, preparing them for careers as ethical and effective advocates and leaders at the international, national and local levels.

Provided by George Washington University