Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) students are getting a taste for politics and government thanks to a mentorship opportunity with local politicians.
Designed to give students a clear idea on where their degrees can take them, the political science mentorship program at KPU pairs students with federal Members of Parliament (MPs) and provincial Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
“I initially joined the program because I wanted to see how the government works. I’ve studied it so much, but had never experienced it in a practical or direct way,” say Chiara Camedda, who participated in the program while completing her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree at KPU.
“For anyone who’s thinking of applying, just do it because you’re not going to regret it. It’s a great stepping stone and was such an enriching experience for me.”
By volunteering over a four-month term, students are able to gain a deeper understanding of real-world issues and politics, develop connections through networking and have the opportunity to make an impact on their communities.
Nearly 30 students have participated in the program since its launch in 2021, with several even receiving full-time or part-time job offers from their mentors. This includes Camedda, who was hired full-time as an outreach coordinator by MP Hedy Fry.
“I was responsible for community engagement and building relationships with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, seniors, women, multicultural communities and small businesses. The job was very fast-paced and really made me step out of my comfort zone. I grew a lot, both professionally and personally.”
The program has amassed growing support from local politicians over the years, with participating mentors including MP Sukh Dhaliwal, MLA Elenore Sturko, MP Hedy Fry and MLA Megan Dykeman.
“We’re finding that the MPs and MLAs are very impressed with our students,” says political science instructor Dr. Ross Michael Pink, who leads the program. “Students aren’t only learning firsthand about politics, but they’re gaining those valuable connections that are opening doors for more opportunities.”
The Bachelor of Arts Major in Political Science at KPU combines a solid foundation in scholarship on emerging power dynamics with hands-on learning opportunities in debate, diplomacy and policy. The program instills a range of transferable skills, preparing students for careers in the public sector, foreign service and diplomacy, international agencies and non-governmental organizations, and more.
The political science mentorship program is open to students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts, Associate of Arts or Minor in political science at KPU. For more information on how to get involved, visit the mentorship program page.