For political science majors, Washington, D.C., isn’t just a city – it’s the ultimate classroom. In November, a group of Indiana State University students stepped into the heart of American politics, guided by Dr. Carly Schmitt, Associate Professor of Political Science, and Dr. Mike Chambers, Professor of Political Science. Over several packed days, they explored historic landmarks, met influential leaders and alumni, and learned about politics in an interactive experience.
The trip began with a walking tour of the National Mall, where students visited iconic sites including the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Washington Monument. Each student researched and presented on an assigned monument, turning the experience into an interactive lesson.
“I gave a presentation about the Lincoln Memorial, and I actually learned that the man who designed the memorial, Henry Bacon, wanted the whole National Mall and the Lincoln Memorial specifically to rival the Taj Mahal in India,” explains senior political science student Joseph Spillman. “He purposely designed the memorial by taking granite and limestone from all different parts of the U.S. to symbolize the country healing and coming together after the Civil War.”
Students also visited outside the White House and the Capitol building, and toured the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the Supreme Court. Outside the Supreme Court, they witnessed a peaceful protest.
“You see news about protests at the Supreme Court, but to see one in person – that was something different,” says sophomore economics major Michael Klemme. “It was peaceful. They were just expressing how they felt.”
During the trip, the United States government was in the midst of a shutdown, which meant Sycamores were unable to tour inside federal buildings or witness Congress in session. Instead, students experienced a rare, quieter side of the nation’s capital. “Everything was really quiet in D.C. There weren’t as many people as I expected. It wasn’t busy at all,” says Spillman.
Despite the government shutdown, Schmitt and Chambers ensured the trip was rich with learning opportunities. Students met with Indiana Senator Todd Young’s staffer, Burke Miller, and toured the Pentagon with alumna Karla Horn, ‘88, Vice Director of Navy Staff.
“We talked to her about her experiences and how she got to where she was. Even though the government was shut down, she was able to give us a tour of the Pentagon, which was really nice,” Spillman remarks.
A networking dinner with alumni who work in and around Capitol Hill offered helpful career tips and a glimpse into living and working in Washington, D.C. “A lot of the advice they gave was to be confident, to know that you’re capable of doing the work, and to really make connections. It’s important to put yourself in rooms with people who can help you,” says junior political science student Gabby Swanson.
For many students, the trip helped narrow down their career choices. “I’m definitely leaning toward something at the Statehouse or being a legislative assistant in Congress. That’s my dream job,” Spillman says.
Swanson adds, “Going to D.C. helped me see that I can branch out of my comfort zone and live somewhere that is a great space if I want to pursue a political career. It showed me that there is no limit to my education and that I can make it far.”
That’s exactly the goal of the trip, Chambers explains. “Indiana State is all in on experiential learning. We provide unique opportunities for our students to study all areas of political science and legal studies,” he says.
Trips like this—funded by the Indiana State University Center for Community Engagement and the Indiana State University College of Arts and Sciences’ Sandy Senior-Dauer Fund— help students connect classroom lessons to real-world experiences. In addition to Washington, D.C., students have traveled to China, Greece, Italy, and Ireland.
“We find resources for our students so they can learn how to get from A to Z in their studies,” Chambers adds. “This helps strengthen their critical thinking, so they understand why they’re learning about politics.”
Schmitt emphasizes the broader impact of a degree in political science or legal studies. She explains, “Our country depends on political science college students. A study in political science helps you become knowledgeable, engaged citizens, and understand how you directly impact politics. Our students are learning how their vote matters, and how they, too, can become policy makers and leaders in government.”
Students agree that Indiana State’s political science program sets them up for success. “I think I’m extremely well prepared for my future because a lot of what we’ve done in class and the exercises we’ve done mirror what alumni have to do on a daily basis,” Spillman remarks. “Our professors are great. They care about our success.”
Given the evolving landscape of political news and trends, pursuing a career in politics is an increasingly significant decision. Indiana State demonstrates a strong commitment to preparing students to critically analyze important issues, participate in thoughtful discussions, and broaden their perspectives.
“Indiana State has taught me how to learn,” Klemme says. “I’m learning to understand and engage with topics I never would have considered before coming to Indiana State. Our government is changing rapidly, but I’m understanding those changes because of what I’m learning here at Indiana State. Studying political science is a great way to get your foot in the door and start working on making a difference.”
Schmitt sums it up best: “We couldn’t be prouder of our students. They aren’t afraid to get involved – whether that’s on campus, in the community, or even in the nation’s capital. They’re ready for the next chapter.”
