Political Science & US Elections

Gain multi-dimensional perspectives of US elections while exploring careers in politics

Summer Springboard program located on the campus of Cal Poly SLO

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Program Highlights

Learn about the different careers in presidential campaigns

Get a behind-the-scenes look into how elections are conducted

Engage in major issues regarding the nomination process, general election, and election administration

Residential Tuition :
$5,298

Session 2:
July 14, 2024 July 26, 2024

Cal Poly - San Luis Obispo
Cal Poly SLO - San Luis Obispo, CA

Testimonials

"This experience was very rewarding. I gained a lot of independence and really learned a lot, I would definitely to this program again."

Julia J.
"Summer springboard was such a great time and I believe I have met some lifelong friends here. I really got to know the career path I chose and also got to know the area and got to explore"

Sophia W.

Course Overview

As the 2024 presidential election kicks into high gear this summer, students will get a hands-on education into how elections are actually conducted in the U.S. from the campaign perspective and an
administrative and constitutional lens. This course will be a great opportunity for students to make connections for possible jobs and internships in the political world as well as in local government. It will allow them to survey the field to explore their own interests while also allowing them to become better engaged and informed participants in democracy.

Meet your instructor

Quemars Ahmed J.D.

Political Science & US Elections Cal Poly SLO

Quemars Ahmed was born and raised in California and is honored to teach at one of its great public universities. Ahmed graduated with his J.D. from UCLA Law where he was editor-in-chief of the UCLA Law Review.

Learn more

Topics you'll explore

Career Exploration

Visit the County Clerk's Office to see how ballots are tabulated and results determined. Hear from various current and former presidential campaign staffers

Course Structure

There are nine 3-hour class sessions over the two-week course. During week one, students have class from 9am-12pm Monday - Friday. During week two, students have class from 9am-12pm Monday through Thursday. Wednesday afternoons of each week are dedicated to students' course-specific academic excursion, guest speaker, or activity.