Brett Stewart is a sophomore at Gettysburg College majoring in political science. He is very involved around campus, being a part of the Sigma Nu fraternity, student senate, and various other clubs. Brett is currently a member of the Inside Politics program at the Eisenhower Institute for the Spring of 2012.
How did you hear about EI? And why did you choose your program?
I heard about the program from friends who participated in past semesters. They saw it as a great experience and I wanted to check it out myself.
What do you hope to get out of the program?
I hoped to gain some insider perspectives and experience within the D.C. world. It seems like a fortress from the outside, and I demanded some answers.
What are you most excited for?
I was excited for the D.C. trip portion of the program.
What are you researching?
I am currently researching the impact Super-PACs have on the political realm and how they will affect current and future election cycles.
What has been the favorite part of your experience?
The D.C. trip.
What did you think of the DC trip?
It was just as I expected. Great answers from truly outstanding individuals in the political world. After the program, I really felt at ease on obtaining an internship and possibly working with the federal government sometime in the future.
What advice would you give someone looking to get involved?
Always ask questions and try to keep an open mind. What you read in class differs greatly than what you find out in the real world, especially in D.C.
Would the programs benefit someone of any background?
Anyone that has an interest in a specific form of policy, or simply wishes to know more about their government, should be a part of this program. While political science majors like myself will naturally enjoy this, I believe anyone with an interest in civic participation should attend.
What else are you involved in on campus?
I am President of the College Democrats. I sit on the executive board of the Student Senate as Clubs’ Liaison of the Senate and work with the Office of Student Activities in this capacity. I’m an active member in the Sangha Meditation Club (it keeps me at peace from all the politics) and I am a member of the Sigma Nu fraternity.
