Jack Kruger, Catholic '23, is a Politics major from Freeland, MD. He shares why he chose to attend Catholic University, and what advice he has for prospective students.
Why did you choose to attend Catholic University and what set the Department of Politics apart?
"I chose to attend Catholic University due to the location. Being interested in politics, I knew that DC was where I needed to be. Just reading through the breadth of courses on the website attracted me to the department, and getting to take those classes really showed me how great the department can be. Once you get into the upper-level courses, you will be taking classes taught by experts who are still active in their fields. These professors will challenge you, but in doing so will give you a better understanding of the topics at hand."
Why did you choose to student Politics?
"I have realized that Politics is as much a verb as it is a subject. In class, we learn concepts and typologies which I have been able to apply successfully outside the classroom to enhance my own activism. Since starting at Catholic, I have knocked on hundreds of doors in my community in support of local and state candidates, made thousands of calls nationwide, and am in the process of co-chairing an assembly campaign in California. I've also been able to experience internships in government and the private sector. All of this would not have been possible without studying the concepts behind these activities, and both have really gone hand-in-hand for me."
What's been your favorite part of being a student at Catholic University?
"My favorite part of being a student at Catholic University has to be the community. It really is a tight-knit and friendly place at its heart, and you will find over your time here that you know everyone, or at least know of everyone. This may seem scary at first, but the students here are so nice that by the time you have moved in and adjusted to campus life, you will want to know everyone."
What advice would you give to prospective students?
"To prospective students, I would say that you really need to make the most of your time here at Catholic and in DC. Really push yourself to get those internships and classes with high-profile faculty, as it will give you more perspective on your major and will lead to great opportunities later on."