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Meet One of Our Students
Kaitlyn Geiger, Senior
Kaitlyn is a Political Science major and Women Studies minor from Long Island, NY.
Why I Chose Political Science
"When I found Political Science on SUNY Plattsburgh's website, I was intrigued. I had been interested in law classes in high school, so I decided to take some political science classes to see if I would enjoy them. My first class was U.S. National Politics with Dr. G. Olivia O'Donnell and I fell in love with politics. I became very interested in government and the systems and structures that are associated with government operations."
Plattsburgh an Excellent Place to go to School
"I decided to come to SUNY Plattsburgh after attending orientation. I wanted a change in atmosphere, from the fast pace of life on Long Island to a more peaceful and calm scene. I had some great orientation leaders who convinced me that Plattsburgh was a fun town and an excellent place to go to school. They emphasized the college-town community, which is welcoming to students, and they made the classes seem so appealing that I decided I definitely wanted to attend."
Opportunities
"I have grown so much over the past four years as a person, citizen, student and woman. Minoring in Women's Studies has opened my eyes to the oppression women face and has also led me to take action. I have recently taken a leadership role in the Political Science Honor Society, Pi Sigma Alpha: Omicron Omega Chapter and I have just completed an internship in the Regional Office of Governor Eliot Spitzer. I am also a Teaching Assistant to Dr. O'Donnell, who inspired me to pursue Political Science. My internship has extended me the opportunity to meet some powerful political figures in New York State such as Governor Eliot Spitzer, Assemblywoman Janet Duprey, Senator Elizabeth "Betty" Little, and Plattsburgh Town Supervisor Bernie Bassett among others.
Helpful Professors
"I have had the opportunity to work with almost all of the professors in the Political Science Department. Dr. O'Donnell uses a unique teaching method that incorporates personal experience with her lectures and includes gender studies in her classes as well. Her clever assignments are fun to participate in. Dr. Lubin is extraordinary and his ideology classes are intriguing. Dr. Itoh's classes are challenging and offer new and exciting topics. Dr. Konda's seminar was delightful and his extensive vocabulary increased my dialect, encouraging me to be more involved with current political events. Dr. Gottschall and I have worked closely through the development of my internship in the Governor's office and in pursuing an active leadership role in the Omicron Omega chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha."
My Future Plans
"The Political Science Department at SUNY Plattsburgh is a challenging and adventurous major or minor to pursue. I intend to apply to law schools after graduating, and to maintain a relationship with my mentors and professors here. The knowledge and tools I have gained will last me a lifetime. I am glad I chose political science as my major and I encourage others to do the same."
Questions, Comments, Suggestions?
If you would like more information about political science at Plattsburgh State please contact
Jon Gottschall, Chairperson
Office: Hawkins 149, 101 Broad Street, Plattsburgh NY 12901
Phone: (518) 564-5830
Fax: (518) 564-4124 or 564-3842
E-mail: gottscjs@plattsburgh.edu