Hey folks, just out of curiosity, does anyone know what most politicians commonly study in college? I'm thinking about politics as a long-term career path. What should I major in?
There's quite a range when it comes to educational backgrounds of politicians, but many of them typically study areas that relate to public service and effective communication. This includes majors like Political Science, Economics, Law, History, and Public Policy. These subjects provide a foundation of knowledge about how governments operate, economic principles, historical context, and policy formulation, which can be very useful in a political career.
However, it's also common to find politicians with backgrounds in diverse fields. For instance, science and engineering majors can contribute to discussions on policies in technology, environment, and healthcare. Business majors can offer unique perspectives on economic policies and entrepreneurship. It would be beneficial to supplement these degrees with additional coursework or minors in political science, law, or other directly relevant fields.
At the end of the day, the degree itself doesn't make you a politician - it's your passion for social change, leadership, public service, and mastering the art of persuasion that matters. You'll gain a lot of important skills outside the classroom, too: joining debate clubs, student government, volunteer groups, or internships can provide hands-on experience in policy-making, leadership, and public service.
It can be helpful to think about what issues you are passionate about or the type of political work you want to be involved in, and select your major accordingly. In any case, clear communication, critical thinking, and an understanding of the nation's sociopolitical context are essential skills you'll need to develop, regardless of your major.
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