Pathway to politics: New course connects political science students with department alumni

This October, fourth year political science students had the opportunity to network with alumni from the department to learn about their lives and careers since graduation. The course, titled Pathways: Approaching Life with a Political Science Degree, helps prepare students to transition from their undergraduate degree to graduate schools, first jobs, and careers.

“The course and these sessions aim to reduce the potential uncertainty, stress, and sense of isolation that many graduating students encounter,” says Dr. Lana Wylie, the course professor. “These connections provide current students with practical advice from people who were in their shoes.”

The networking sessions took place on October 17^th and 19^th in L.R. Wilson Hall, and were well attended by students and alumni alike. Students were lined up out the door, eager to chat with alumni from various industries. Students had the opportunity to network with alumni one-on-one and in a small open discussion forum where they could ask personalized questions.

“Meeting successful alumni in various fields emphasized that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to post-grad life,” says Siham El Mabruok, a student in the course. “Learning about the pathways that led these alumni to where they are today was very inspiring and opened my eyes to […] the importance of not giving up.”

The event was also a great opportunity for students to build connections that could lead to future career opportunities. Many students exchanged contact information with alumni and were encouraged to follow up after the event.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to pay it forward and provide advice to political science students applying to law school,” says Mitchell Hajnal, a 2018 political science grad and one of fourteen alumni who attended throughout the week. “I enjoyed catching up with old classmates, meeting new students, and being a part of the McMaster community again.”

The networking sessions are just one component of the broader course, which also helps students with skills like writing, presenting, and problem-solving. The course is currently in its second year, and so far feedback from students has been very positive.

“I would like to express my gratitude to the alumni who took time out of their busy schedules to attend this event,” El Mabruok says. “Their willingness to share their experiences, offer guidance and invest time in connecting with us undergraduate students is inspiring.”

The Pathways course runs annually and is open to all political science students entering their fourth year.