Presidential Politics

By Rachel David ‘19

As the American political machine revved into gear for the 2016 election cycle, Bradley political science major Natalie Landin ’18 recognized she had a unique opportunity to see the election up close through Bradley’s Washington D.C. semester.

Landin, of Eagle, Colorado, always had a political interest and opted for a semester in the nation’s capital instead of overseas study options because she could experience the American political process.

"I knew that it would be an opportunity I honestly wouldn't have gotten to see again," she said. "What I saw in the spring primaries made me feel like it was almost an obligation to be in D.C. during this crazy time."

The semester brought Landin and classmates together with Supreme Court justices, politicians and political experts with a variety of perspectives. She met with leaders from the Cato, American Enterprise and Heritage institutes. Her classes also spoke with Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Additionally, Landin observed protests that have caught the nation’s attention through news and social media.

"This has been an incredible immersive experience that anyone who is interested in politics should do," Natalie said. "The city is my teacher and I'm a sponge absorbing everything I can."

Despite the contentious 2016 political season, Landin gained valuable insights into the American system. Those insights challenged her perspectives and gave her a new outlook on politics.

"I wish the average American knew that not all politicians are corrupt. They really are doing what they can to provide the best for our country," she said. "I have learned to understand and respect opposing points of view when provided with credible arguments. I've even seen myself change on certain issues and topics."

Landin’s semester confirmed her long-term political interests. She hopes to pursue a graduate degree and use that knowledge to return to the city that fanned her career hopes.

“D.C. is a magical place,” she said. “This experience has given me the passion to build my knowledge and become someone influential in this city.”

Natalie Landin '18 is studying in Washington, D.C. during the Fall 2016 semester. (Photo provided)