Gifts to Department of Political Science - Meet Benjamin contribute to...
Benjamin ’25 has endless passion and motivation to study political science, public policy and the moral and intellectual convictions that move those in power to make decisions. He just didn’t have an outlet to do it.
When he enrolled at Hope College, everything changed.
“Since I can remember, I have always been fascinated by ideas and values, especially those that affect the people around me,” he explained. “At Hope, I’ve gained a more hands-on academic understanding of these concepts through real-life case studies, collecting my own data and proposing my own theories within a broader academic discourse on politics.”
Currently, Benjamin’s research has led him to publish his political theory piece in The Bell Tower, Hope’s academic journal for Christian thought. In this article, he explores the relationship between traditional religion and American democracy in local communities.
Last December, he also completed his Political Science Capstone thesis that expanded on this research. This class stretched Benjamin in ways he didn’t think possible. “I have been able to struggle towards the truth and grapple with my faith. Our discussions in the classroom have ranged from engagement with ancient thinkers to contemporary debates on the vitality of American democracy. These discussions are difficult, yet edifying,” he shared.
He’s especially thankful for Drs. David Ryden and Kirstin Birkhaug for their mentorship, research opportunities, energy, and for fostering a community of excellence in the department.
Benjamin is weighing his many career options. “I’m interested in teaching, law enforcement, lobbying or working in local government on public policy, education, conservation or urban development,” he explained.
Through your gifts to the Department of Political Science, you can help students like Benjamin pursue something bigger than themselves. “Your gifts give students the opportunity to pursue an education that molds not only our professional future, but our personal identities as participants in a political society,” he said thoughtfully. “We’re forming into better human beings, seeking to improve our communities, country and the world.”
What will you inspire with your gift to the political science department today?
