I chose to major in Politics because I wanted to understand how institutions shape people’s lives and to apply that knowledge in service to something larger than myself. As a first-generation student who transferred from community college and served as an elected official throughout my time at Princeton, public service has always been important to me.

The Politics Department was the home I was looking for — a place to grow as both a scholar and a practitioner, where my academic work and my service could strengthen one another. My professors provided invaluable mentorship that pushed me to think rigorously, ask tough questions, and produce work that mattered. I never thought that I’d be writing a senior thesis about how mayors shape fiscal policy and then become one in the process, but that shows how Princeton opens doors and makes the unexpected possible.

My advice to prospective Politics majors is to stay curious and be open to growth. The department will challenge you, support you, and ultimately give you the tools to understand and improve the world around you.