DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

Department of Political Science

Survey of Graduates

November 2006

Profile of each respondent:

1. 1970-or earlier; Chairman, Advertising Agency (over $100,000)

2. 1970 or earlier; Project Manager, Aerospace/Defense Contractor

3. 1970 or earlier, retired, Special Agent, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, U.S. Department of State, ($50-60,000)

4. 1970 or earlier, Manager, Social Security Administration, Federal Government (over $100,000)

5. 1971-1976; Owner, CEO, self employed (over $100,000)

6. 1971-1976; Assembler ($30-40,000)

7. 1971-1976; Vice President, Sales & Marketing (over $100,000)

8. 1971-1976; J.D., Lawyer (over $80-90,000)

9. 1971-1976; President, Barbara Knight Manors, Administrator ($70-80,000)

10. 1971-1976; J.D.; Judge (over $100,000)

11. 1971-1876; A.A.; Owner/CEO (over $100,000)

12. 1971-1976; M.A.; Self-Employed (over $100,000)

13. 1971-1976; M.A.; Real Estate Sales Agent (over $100,000)

14. 1971-1976; M.A.; City Manager (over $100,000)

15. 1971-1976; CEO (over $100,000)

16. 1971-1976; M.A.; Chief Executive Officer (over $100,000)

17. 1971-1976; Earthmover Sales Manager ($80-90,000)

18. 1971-1976; retired

19. 1971-1976; Executive, Creative Director (over $100,000)

20. 1971-1976; Field Director, Internal Revenue Service (over $100,000)

21. 1971-1976; retired

22. 1971-1976; Self-Employed Sales ($90-100,000)

23. 1971-1976; B.A., M.A.; Teacher ($50-60,000)

24. 1971-1976; A.A.; Case Manager, Insurance Brokerage ($30-40,000)

25. 1977-1982; M.A.; Senior Projects Manager, Community Redevelopment ($50-60,000)

26. 1977-1982; M.A.; Government (over $100,000)

27. 1977-1982; Nurse ($30-40,000)

28. 1977-1982; Management of Retail Broker (over $100,000)

29. 1977-1982; Rental Home Owner/Auction Work ($40-50,000)

30. 1977-1982; M.A.; Administrative Law Judge (over $100,000)

31. 1977-1982; M.A.; Manager, Contract Administration (over $100,000)

32. 1977-1982; Job Developer ($30-40,000)

33. 1977-1982; M.A.; Chief Fiscal Officer, Onondaga County, NY (over $100,000)

34. 1977-1982; J.D.; Director, HR Compliance (over $100,000)

35. 1977-1982; J.D.; Partner in a law firm (over $100,000)

36. 1977-1982; J.D.; Staff Counsel ($80-90,000)

37. 1977-1982; Paralegal ($30-40,000)

38. 1977-1982; Senator in Yap, FSM ($20-30,000)

39. 1983-1988; J.D.; Senior Legislative Counsel to Gov. Mitch Daniels (over $100,000)

40. 1983-1988; J.D.; Deputy Prosecuting Attorney (over $100,000)

41. 1983-1988; Divinity; Retired

42. 1983-1988; J.D.; Assistant Dean and Associate Professor (over $100,000)

43. 1983-1988; J.D.; Criminal Defense Attorney ($70-80,000)

44. 1983-1988; unemployed (under $20,000)

45. 1983-1988; Manager, Market Intelligence (over $100,000)

46. 1983-1988; J.D.; Attorney (over $100,000)

47. 1983-1988; Legal/Executive Recruiter ($80-90,000)

48. 1983-1988; J.D.; Attorney (over $100,000)

49. 1983-1988; J.D.; Attorney ($90-100,000)

50. 1983-1988; J.D.; Attorney ($60-70,000)

51. 1989-1994; Sales/Bridal Consultant ($20-30,000)

52. 1989-1994; Certificate; Senior Copy Editor ($30-40,000)

53. 1989-1994; Caring for home/family

54. 1989-1994; Delivery Project Executive (over $100,000)

55. 1989-1994; M.A.; Operations Director, Not-for-Profit Social Service ($40-50,000)

56. 1989-1994; Teacher (under $20,000)

57. 1989-1994; Postal Clerk ($50-60,000)

58. 1989-1994; M.A., Military

59. 1989-1994; Unemployed

60. 1989-1994; J.D.; Attorney (over $100,000)

61. 1995-2000; J.D.; Partner in Law Firm ($80-90,000)

62. 1995-2000; Military ($70-80,000)

63. 1995-2000; J.D.; Attorney ($60-70,000)

64. 1995-2000; J.D.; Attorney ($40-50,000)

65. 1995-2000; Customer Service ($40-50,000)

66. 1995-2000; J.D.; Attorney

67. 1995-2000; M.A.; Executive Director ($80-90,000)

68. 1995-2000; J.D.; Legal Instructor ($20-30,000)

69. 1995-2000; Teaching Certification, Teacher ($30-40,000)

70. 1995-2000; Adult Probation Officer ($30-40,000)

71. 1995-2000; Caring for home/family

72. 1995-2000; Child Protection Case Manager ($30-40,000)

73. 1995-2000; J.D.; Government Attorney ($30-40,000)

74. 1995-2000; pursuing Ph.D.; Graduate Assistant/Teaching Assistant (under $20,000)

75. 2001-2006; Paralegal ($40-50,000)

76. 2001-2006; Factory Worker ($30-40,000)

77. 2001-2006; J.D.; Attorney ($70-80,000)

78. 2001-2006; Security Officer ($20-30,000)

79. 2001-2006; Caring for home/faculty

80. 2001-2006; J.D.; Associate Attorney ($50-60,000)

81. 2001-2006; Community Development Coordinator; Not-for-profit ($20-30,000)

82. 2001-2006; Indiana Reading Corps, Program Coordinator (under $20,000)

83. 2001-2006; Certificate; Practical Nurse ($30-40,000)

84. 2001-2006; J.D.; Political Consultant ($40-50,000)

85. 2001-2006; Regional Coordinator, Government ($30-40,000)

86. 2001-2006; Assistant Manager, Sales ($20-30,000)

87. 2001-2006; continuing education

88. 2001-2006; Administrative Assistant ($20-30,000)

89. 2001-2006; Sr. Contracting Specialist, Health System ($50-60,000)

90. 2001-2006; On Site Coordinator, Education ($20-30,000)

91. 2001-2006; continuing education (J.D.)

92. 2001-2006; pursuing Ph.D.; instructor (under $20,000)

93. 2001-2006; pursuing Divinity degree; Customer Solutions Agent (under $20,000)

94. 2001-2006; teaching assistant; continuing education (M.A.) (under $20,000)

I. When did you receive your B.A. in Political Science?

4 1970 or earlier 10 1989-1994

20 1971-1976 14 1995-2000

14 1977-1982 20 2001-2006

12 1983-1988

II. Employment

1. Which of the following best describes what you are currently doing?

(Choose only one.)

71 Employed

10 Employed and continuing my education

3 Caring for home/family (Skip to Section III)

2 Continuing my education (Skip to Section III)

11 Unemployed (Skip to Section III)

2 Military (Skip to Section III)

4 Retired (Skip to Section III)

2. What is your primary job title? _______________________________

3. What category best describes your employer? (Choose only one.)

15 Self-employed/private practice 4 Health agency

5 Sales 1 Armed services

13 Business 18 Government

8 Professional firm 10 Other (Please specify)

5 College or university _______________

3 Elementary/secondary school

4. Did your political science degree help in getting a job?

14 not at all

17 may have helped

27 helped some

26 definitely helped

5. How closely related is your current job to your political science major at IPFW?

14 Closely related

32 Related

37 Unrelated

Comments:

1. We developed a nitch for state business during the last 18 years; we also handle select political campaigns.

3. I believe my political science degree gave me some good background for a career in diplomacy and security/law enforcement. I especially remember the course I took from Van Coufoudakis on International Law. Julius Smulkstys’ courses drew upon his Eastern European expertise. Living and working in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, was a good follow up to my IU years.

4. My current job is a mid-level manager at the Social Security Administrations Midwest Regional Office in Chicago, Illinois. Our office conducts internal audits of our approximately 225 field offices in a six-state region. We report our findings to the U.S. Congress on a yearly basis. The statistics tell the health of the SSA programs that are being administered to the public: retirement benefits, disability benefits and the SSI needs based program. We are also now involved in monitoring the Medicare drug program which was recently initiated.

My education in political science has not directly had any bearing on my career. What my degree did tell my employer, however, is that I had the fortitude and drive to complete a four-year task successfully. As a manager, I look for people who have the same type of drive. We only hire college graduates at SSA and many have advanced degrees. Our work is technical and dynamic as we have to adjust to changes in the Title II and XVI acts of the Social Security law as amended by Congress. The laws are constantly changing as the result of new legislation and the public’s changing needs.

6. None of my previous jobs had anything to do with my degree. I should have majored in a field that would get me a better job.

15. Wholesale petroleum requires constant awareness of volatile oil-related news stories.

17. Worked for Michelin North America for 28 years in sales and training jobs in the Midwest.

19. I’ve spent my entire career in the advertising/direct marketing industries. While themes apply (see below) the specifics of my degree have been largely irrelevant in establishing credentials for me.

20. Most of my classes focused on international processes—much attention on the middle east. That background helped me compete/be selected for an assignment in Ankara in 1996 with the IRS/World Bank which could have lasted 2 years…but only went for 5 weeks due to election results. Presently: job directly impacted by Administration/Treasury tax policy, congressional oversight committees and the vagaries of the legislative process.

23. I teach 12^th grade government.

28. Understanding of political behavior, groups, organizations helps in business too—though not always directly.

29. I worked 6 years in city government. I use the work ethic and thinking skills everyday which I gained at IPFW.

31. Worked in government affairs for my company for several years. Switched to a different position.

32. Both consider people living in society.

38. Nothing could be closer, although it never was a part of my plan while in school to eventually pursue a political career. Back then, my country was undergoing a period of political transition, so, naturally, the subject caught my attention, but only to the extent of studying it. The decision to run for politics didn’t come by until about 15 years ago when I thought my involvement could impact things around here. Nothing is so easy, but I haven’t given up, and luckily, the constituents haven’t given up hope on me either.

46. My practice requires involvement with local government officials. An academic understanding of government structure and dynamics has helped.

50. I am in-house counsel for a small insurance firm. I am in charge of regulatory compliance and governmental affairs.

62. My primary duties are in security operations; but due to my interests in government and history, I’ve been employed to conduct intelligence operations including analysis. Background and education were direct contributors to my current duty position.

63. Political Science in part teaches anticipated or preferred responses to factual scenarios. The processes used to deduct these responses are similar to and compliment those used in many areas of the practice of law.

66. Georgia’s pre-law classes were excellent preparation into what to “kind of” expect (knowing nothing is like law school, except law school!). She was stricter with deadlines and that is good.

67. I have worked as a consultant for government and private entities for 10 years—much of my work revolves around government policies and is therefore related.

69. Went back to school to get 2^nd degree.

74. As a grad student in political science, my degree in political science from IPFW is integral.

76. Factory work.

78. I became a private security officer back in 1999. I am putting off looking for a real job until after the November 7^th election. I am running for state representative. You all should be proud!

84. I work in professional politics—the knowledge gained at IPFW serves me well.

85. While my coursework addressed the federal government in general, it did not get into detailing the roles and inner workings of various offices.

89. My political science background allows me to talk politics with CEOs and COOs for LHN’s eight hospitals and urgent cares. Most time I feel it breaks the ice.

93. This part-time position pays the bills while in school full-time.

6. How helpful has your political science major been in the specific duties of your current job?

19 A great deal

34 Somewhat

17 Very little

13 Not at all

Comments:

3. See #5 comment (I believe my political science gave me some good background for a career in diplomacy and security/law enforcement. I especially remember the course I took from Van Coufoudakis on International Law. Julius Smulkstys’ courses drew upon his Eastern European expertise. Living and working in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, was a good follow up to my IU years.)

4. I felt I learned how to study and concentrate at IPFW and I have continued to utilize that asset in my employment during my 36-year career. I am very thankful for my education and especially to Professor Michael Downs. I had several classes with Michael and I considered him my mentor. I spent numerous hours with him in his office debating and discussing the issues of the day. He always had time for me and I considered him my friend. I was deeply saddened to here of his passing.

6. If I had to do it over again, I would not major in political science.

17. Understanding the politics of working with an international company with facilities all over the world and personnel from 15 different countries.

19. I’m a writer charged with getting consumers to make decisions. In that very real connection, political science comes in handy (as does sociology and psychology). Funny—of all the arcana collected along the way, one—non-decision making—is the one that sticks with me most. How to prevent people from deciding not to make a decision is, for all practical purposes, how I make my living.

20. Even before IPFW I was predisposed to seek out and understand the underlying interests and processes that give rise to final outcomes—rather than just accept end results at face value. The political science major presented many opportunities to observe real examples of influencing/negotiating and political science in action. These are important competencies to have in any organization. I would probably have sharpened by skills on my own anyway—but the courses were helpful.

24. My education at IPFW, however, has helped me immensely throughout my life.

35. Helped me develop analytical skills.

38. Because I was only an “average” student, I could not say that I benefited tremendously from what I might have learned, but at the same time, I can’t deny that having majored in political science hasn’t helped in one way or another. For that reason, I am most thankful to IU, the Political Science Department, its faculty and staff, and most specifically to the late Dr. Downs. Because of my limited proficiency of the English language, Professor Downs would have to extend his office hours in order to clarify things for me. I could not have made it through school without him. He was much more than a professor!

42. It is not that I use any of the particular readings or teachings as much as it is the spirit of public interest and inquiry in law and politics.

46. See above comment. (My practice requires involvement with local government officials. An academic understanding of government structure and dynamics has helped.)

48. Particularly helpful was the focus on writing in doing well in law school—and daily law practice.

50. See above comment. (I am in-house counsel for a small insurance firm. I am in charge of regulatory compliance and governmental affairs.)

62. It so happens that nation building, intelligence and security are growth industries right now.

63. Not only has it helped me think like a lawyer, it has also saved me invaluable time in already knowing how the General Assembly creates and passes a statute and the reasoning behind the creation or amendment of the same. Knowing this makes it easier to argue as an advocate.

67. It helped build the foundation and tools.

68. Teaching Constitutional Law.

84. Writing skills and general knowledge learned as a political science major both benefit me now.

93. The analytical and writing skills seem to be helpful in a wide range of positions.

7. What is your approximate income? (not family income)

5 under $20,000 2 between $60,000-$70,000

6 between $20,000-$30,000 5 between $70,000-$80,000

11 between $30,000-$40,000 5 between $80,000-$90,000

6 between $40,000-$50,000 2 between $90,000-$100,000

6 between $50,000-$60,000 28 over $100,000

III. Additional Education

8. Since receiving your B.A. in political science, have you earned one or more additional post-secondary degrees?

43 yes

50 no

9. If you marked “yes,” please indicate all of the additional degrees you have earned.

2 Associate's Other Health Professional

1 Second Bachelor's 1 Theology/Divinity

12 Master's 25 Law (LLB, JD)

Medicine (MD, DO) Doctorate (Ph.D., Ed.D., DA, DBA)

Dentistry (DDS, DMD) 2 Other (Please specify)

____________________________

10. From what institution(s) did you receive your additional degree(s)?

_________________________________________________________________

11. In general, how well did your IPFW degree prepare you for additional degree programs?

36 Very well

20 Adequately

Inadequately

12. Are you currently pursuing a post-secondary degree program?

16 Yes 67 No

If you marked “yes,” which degree?

□ Associate's □ Other Health Professional

2 Second Bachelor's □ Theology/Divinity

9 Master's 2 Law (LLB, JD)

□ Medicine (MD, DO) 3 Doctorate (Ph.D., Ed.D., DA, DBA)

□ Dentistry (DDS, DMD) 1 Other (Please specify)

____________________________

IV. The Political Science Program at IPFW

13. To what extent do you feel that you made progress in each of the following areas while you were a student at IPFW?

Very Much

Some

Very Little

a. Gaining a broad general education __82__ __10__ ___1_

b. Writing clearly and effectively __64__ __23__ ___2_

c. Speaking clearly and effectively __49__ __37__ ___5_

d. Understanding written material __77__ __14__ ___1_

e. Thinking analytically and logically __80__ __14__ _____

f. Defining and solving problems __69__ __23__ ___2_

g. Acquiring familiarity with the use __13__ __21__ __57__

of computers

63. Comment: None, but that is a reflection on IPFW. I was too far ahead of the curve in this area.

14. How active have you been in local, state, or national politics (check all that apply)?

4 inactive

2 vote irregularly

85 vote regularly

46 have been involved in one or some election campaigns

32 participant in interest group or lobby attempting to influence government policy

9 am heavily involved in party activities or efforts to influence policy

12 am or have been a candidate for public office

7 hold or have held elected office

8 hold or have held appointed political/administrative office

5 am or have been an employee of political organization (party, PAC, lobby group, political interest group)

15. Do you think the department did a good job of preparing you to understand politics?

0 not at all

4 somewhat

26 a good job

36 very well prepared

27 excellent

16. If there were any courses, instructors, or experiences connected with your education in political science that were particularly important to you, please tell us what or who they were.

1. Any course taught by Mike Downs or Julius Smulkstys

2. Mike Downs was my mentor—God rest his soul.

3. Any courses taught by Downs, Smulkstys and Coufoudakis. See comment II.5.

8. All of my political science professors taken from 1970-1974 were top notch!

11. Dr. Sally Merrill. Dr. Michael Downs.

12. Mike Downs.

13. Internship with Dr. Sally Merrill.

14. Downs. Houseman. Owen. Involvement in Fort Wayne political campaign as an undergraduate.

15. Both influences with Dr. Coufoudakis and Dr. Houseman.

17. International Politics.

18. Dr. Mike Downs. Great mentor. Was not concerned with party-only activities.

20. As stated in the last survey, I think very highly of Van Coufoudakis and hope he is well. I lost his email address when my PC crashed and have not corresponded with him since he retired. He was moving to Lido Key in Sarasota and spending half his time as a college administrator in Cyprus.

21. Drs. Smulkstys and Coufoudakis were outstanding teachers.

22. I thought Dr. Houseman, Downs, and Coufoudakis were very good instructors.

23. Smulkstys, Downs, Owen, Coufoudakis, and Houseman.

24. Mike Downs was the best professor I have had. We did not agree about a lot of things, but he was always fair. He made you think about other possibilities. Drs. Coufoudakis and Smulkstys were superb as well.

26. Dr. Downs. Dr. Downs’ Y105 class. Dr. Coufoudakis.

28. Mike Downs was top notch. He was the one who really taught me to think and analyze objectively and clearly in order to truly understand a subject.

29. Internship with city government/Mike Downs. Also, Jerry Houseman made learning fun.

30. Prof. Michael Downs. Prof. Coufoudakis.

32. Mike Downs. Internship in mayor’s office.

33. Too long ago to recall! Clearly, though, my education was positively influenced by Professors Coufoudakis, Houseman, and Merrill.

35. Dr. Gerald Houseman. Dr. Michael Downs.

36. G. Houseman’s classes analyzing constitutional law.

37. Dr. Gerald Houseman was an inspiration to me and suggested I look to a career as a paralegal. He was right on.

38. Political theory is definitely the course because it provides a broader view of politics in general. Once you have embarked upon the concepts you could navigate the points within the parameters of the spectrum. Because of his constant support which included short stories and personal experiences to boost my morale, it is/was Dr. Michael Downs whom I’m most indebted. After relating to me the struggles he went through studying Russian, I felt much better about my English deficiency.

39. All courses with Prof. Coufoudakis. Lutz’ course that emphasized opportunity costs and other “choices” (inherent in policy formation—can’t remember title). Senior seminar with Ulmschneider.

40. Georgia Ulmschneider.

42. Jim Lutz. I truly appreciated your film course. Georgia, great counsel. Mike Downs was a mentor. Van was an inspiration. You were a great collection of caring and intelligent educators.

43. Georgia Wralstad Ulmschneider was the most influential teacher in my entire academic career. She gave me the confidence and motivation to approach issues with an open mind.

45. When I taught Introductory Politics at IPFW for several semesters after graduation in 1988, I modeled my courses after Mike Downs and Van Coufoudakis.

47. Dr. G. Houseman. Dr. M. Downs. Dr. J. Lutz.

48. Georgia Ulmschneider’s law-related courses were great—actually better than many law school courses. Michael Downs and Frank Codispoti also had challenging, interesting courses that were well taught.

49. Prof. Michael Downs’ classes were all interesting and stimulating. Prof. Coufoudakis was particularly good at explaining and fostering an understanding of the background events and how they relate to the present.

50. Every course taught by Dr. Downs and Dr. Coufoudakis.

51. Georgia Ulmschneider is a tough instructor, but she makes her students retain more information because she inputs from other sources than the textbook material and you really have to listen and take good notes because they are usually on the quiz.

52. I will always remember Frank Codispoti’s dictum that the rules of the game have an effect on the outcome of the game.

53. Though I can’t recall the exact titles of Professor Downs’ classes, I thoroughly enjoyed him as a teacher. I really respected what he had to say and how he presented the material. I also loved Professor Ulmschneider’s class on Constitutional Law. Learning the methodology for how to examine a case was extremely intriguing for me. I thought the Eastern European Communism through Film class was a cool way to study ideology through the art of the times. Lastly, I enjoyed my senior seminar (the Holocaust) immensely. Prof. Smulkstys taught that one.

56. All of the professors that I had in political science courses were very good. Each one had a strong knowledge in their area of specialty.

57. Houseman – Constitutional Law. Bartky – Political Thought. General theories from these classes.

58. I remember Professors Bartky, Lutz, Smulkstys, and Houseman very well. All of their courses were very challenging and I can still remember (in come cases) struggling through them.

59. Loved working on the Helmke campaign. One day I went into tell Prof. Downs some problems I had. He stopped me and said he shouldn’t listen as he was with the opposition or a Democratic Party official. What great integrity and honor! Great example to me.

60. Political theory course taught by the late Prof. Downs. Any class taught by Georgia Ulmschneider.

61. As I am sure many have said, Dr. Downs was a great professor. However, it was Dr. Lutz who made the greatest impression on me. He taught me not to give up and to work harder.

62. Senior seminar (Transitions to Democracy) with Dr. Lutz. It directly relates to my last 2 years in Iraq and duties performed. American Political Ideals I and II with Dr. Bartky. Explains to me how we do business now and how our Public Affairs are conducted on the surface and behind closed doors. (Dr. Bartky is the reason I will teach when I retire. Good for you Elliot!)

63. Downs—too many to write about. Jerry Houseman—understanding of foreign governments. Flexibility of the program was crucial. Blauvelt is a pro—can’t run a department any better.

64. Dr. Mike Downs and Georgia Ulmschneider. I took the majority of my POLS courses with both. I was slumping in school and they inspired me to do better and change that. Both were instrumental in my success in getting into and graduating from law school. I also took classes with Drs. Bartky and Lutz. I owe them thanks as well.

65. Mike Downs’ classes were always excellent.

66. Georgia was an excellent pre-law advisor who helped me get accepted at 6 out of 8 law schools where I applied. That was because of her explaining and helping me with a logical strategy which I would never have know to do.

Dr. Michael Downs taught me how to think and write like a scholar and the importance of living life well.

68. Dr. Downs. Dr. Ulmschneider. Dr. Lutz. Middle Eastern Politics. West European Politics. East European Politics.

70. Georgia Ulmschneider was the best professor I’ve every had!! She is so down to earth, easy to relate to and learn from.

71. Professors Coufoudakis, Smulkstys, and Lutz were especially helpful. The courses dealing with international politics were interesting and helpful, i.e. West European Politics, International Law, etc.

72. Both Elliot Bartky and Jerry Houseman were excellent along with Mike Downs. It was very helpful and educational to have professors from different and opposing political parties. Diversity in the backgrounds of professors was important for me to my understanding of important political issues.

74. Drs. Lutz, Toole and Wolf were all instrumental in my entrance into graduate school and helping me realize my academic potential.

76. Professors Ulmschneider, Toole and Lutz.

77. Bartky, Lutz, Downs.

78. Every instructor I had was important.

79. I decided to pursue a political science degree because of a class I took with Michael Downs. I never regretted it and enjoyed learning to write papers for him.

80. Professor Ulmschneider and the law courses.

81. I did not have a bad course or professor in any of my political science classes.

84. Senior seminar—great chance to really deal with one political thinker in great depth. Stats with Prof. Lutz—painful but VERY worth while—my proudest A. All classes with Georgia—very dedicated, always so prepared, learned a lot about politics from her.

85. Georgia Wralstad Ulmschneider is a refreshing, direct professor, whom I felt took a personal interest in my health and well being. She goes down in my annals as the greatest professor I’ve ever had.

86. I enjoy the democracy class and my internship classes.

88. Small classes involving group discourse. Applied applications and projects. Enjoyed Prof. M. Downs, J. Lutz, E. Bartky, T. Hey, and B. Moothart-O’Bannon. Politics in Film was a good class and so was Utopias.

89. Enjoyed classes with Mike Wolf and Lutz’ statistic class.

90. Dr. Bartky was (is) extremely educated and able to teach without being biased towards one political party. He is an excellent professor!

91. Georgia was very helpful in preparing me for law school. I find that her class exams were very similar to law school exams.

92. Georgia Wralstad Ulmschneider. Mike Wolf.

93. Dr. Lutz’ essay exams were probably the most effective help to my education development at IPFW. He made me think and write.

I really appreciated what little time I was able to be with Dr. Michael Downs. Barb is a great help to the department. Great courses offered and texts used.

94. Toole and Wolf were great instructors.

17. What changes, if any, in the political science degree program do you think would have improved your education?

1. I can’t think of any.

2. Keep it a-political! A partisan education is a disservice to America.

3. More chances to study the political process, especially managing election campaigns.

6. Take more business electives in case you don’t get a job in government. How many people actually apply their political science degree?

8. None needed.

12. Mandatory courses in a business related subject, i.e., economics, finance, etc. I took these courses as electives (30 hrs. in economics and 15 to 18 hours of finance). They all provided to be a great addition to the political science courses.

14. Required practicum in a campaign or a local/state agency.

19. I graduated in 1975—so long ago that my observation isn’t based on any knowledge of how things run now. What I most missed back then was any sort of practicum—a chance to try doing the work of a political scientist. We read and read and wrote and wrote about the discipline but would have benefited mightily from some chance to see it in action.

21. A required internship with state/local government.

29. For me, business classes would have been helpful.

30. None that I can think of.

38. I cannot imagine any shortcomings on the part of the program. Changes should be inevitable, though, to reflect the trends and changes in society. My case was a bit unique because I came from a different background, so my situation would not fit the general profile, but I thought/think the program was reasonably sufficient to establish a solid foundation for political science students.

42. Higher education has changed a lot, and I am sure you have grown with it. We work hard today on defining and aligning objectives and creating those feedback hoops through assessment. We try to offer a wide range of instructional activities suiting all students. I don’t recall enough detail of your program to judge. It was 23 years ago.

47. Music fundamentals—harmony.

50. None. IPFW has an excellent political science program.

51. Make the topics more interesting. Invite outside sources to speak on topics related to subject material.

53. My GPA would have improved without the statistics requirementJ. I can’t think of any substantive changes…okay—maybe a class in political communications (i.e., writing campaign materials, developmental communications programs for campaigns, etc.) that would teach real-world skills as opposed to theory.

57. Closer oversight with internships.

58. Not sure if it would have improved my education, but I think more career counseling or career placement would have helped with life after IPFW. Also, staying with one adviser throughout my college career would have been helpful as they might have understood my goals better. When I graduated I was twenty years old and now I think I would have benefited from some more departmental guidance.

59. IPFW needs a law program. The nearest one is in Toledo, Ohio.

61. I think every major—in this program should have to get some real life experience and provide a paper in order to graduate from the program.

62. A course directly examining case studies in contemporary government and corruption, i.e., James Traficant, Ohio. How, who and why. What was gained, impact on the constituency. Media and government operations.

63. More emphasis on economics. More speaking opportunities. More courses on state and local government and politics. Course on rhetoric and reasoning. Course or module on philosophy behind taxation—federal, state and local—module on Indiana’s property tax and how we got where we’re at. Course on how to run for office—hands on—have students fill out the forms and the CFA forms—explain campaign finance. Make the Indiana government class a requirement.

64. When I switched my major to POLS the department increased the Foreign Language requirement. This was a great move. I did not directly benefit from this change because I did not apply myself. To my regret I wish I were bilingual and have considered Spanish as a second language.

65. None.

67. Not applicable to my situation, but I strongly believe in study abroad, intern and participatory programs—increase experiences w/new environments.

71. Offer more courses dealing with international politics and issues.

74. More course offerings and opportunities for research would have been very beneficial.

78. Add some economics courses to the curriculum.

80. I cannot think of one.

81. I think if you added concentrations like Middle East, U.S. government, etc. it would be helpful. I think too that having a choice of senior seminar classes would be nice for future undergraduates.

84. Possibly more writing—though I did my fair share—it was not in required courses—mostly in courses I elected to take.

85. Add a courses that focuses on or details the roles, importance and functions of field offices and their staffs. Such a course may expand students’ career objectives.

86. I think a better internship program that may help graduates find work in the public sector.

87. More focus on international relations and geography.

88. None.

89. I took the majority of my political science classes at IU-Bloomington; however, I liked IPFW’s smaller class size.

92. None.

93. More communication and “statusing” of the students throughout the degree program. The Ministerial Department at God’s College has begun a Yahoo Group website so that the faculty and students can interact. This provides a common place for sharing ideas and memos. It also provides somewhat of a “family” feeling to the department. Though a Christian college would naturally tend to have more of this than a secular school, it would no doubt be of benefit to the students, giving them a sense of direction and support that may be felt as missing.

18. Additional Comments:

3. I feel I got a good education from IU, because only professors or instructors taught; not grad students or teaching assistants. In 1966-70, there was only one building. However, that did not detract from my education.

19. I appreciate you soliciting my views about my Political Science education at IPFW—though now that it’s 31 years in my past, some of it’s getting a little hazy.

With the retirement of Professor Houseman the last of the faculty with whom I had any contact is gone. Good grief—that man put in some serious time!

Answering some of your questions is a little difficult for me. In fact, I’ve never worked in a profession that had any overt connection to Political Science. And yet, the discipline (and the overall liberal arts education) has certainly served me well. I’ve worked in marketing since 1977. For 23 years, I was in New York City where my final job was as Creative Director for American Express. Since then I’ve worked as a consultant for a side range of very interesting clients.

For the past seven years, I’ve lived in Rockville, D just outside the Capital Beltway. Here, I’ve come intensely involved in local politics. I’ve also had the chance to meet a number of Senators and Congressmen, a lot of lobbyists, big wheels in the world of non-profit advocacy and many others. I’m on the board of a few non-profits myself…do my own non-official lobbying in Annapolis…and am helping out on a couple of hotly contested local campaigns at the moment.

So over the course of my life PoliSci has served me well—even though I’ve never hade a living in anything resembling the exact discipline. Count me as one of your good non-political scientist success stories!

21. Buzz Owen was an incompetent joke.

24. It has now been several decades since I graduated, but I hope that IPFW will remain open to all ideas. A number of universities, notably a lot of the Ivy League and “prestigious” universities are closed to alternative ideas, notably those that are conservative or in favor of individual liberty. Universities are quickly becoming the most intolerant institutions in the U.S. Please do not become one of those. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at IPFW.

29. I have very good memories of IPFW. Barb Blauvelt was like the glue that held it all together for the Political Science Department. When I think back to who helped me the most at IPFW, it was Barb and the Foreign Language Department Spanish teachers.

33. Have always appreciated the opportunities created by my education at IUPUFW.

35. I was very well prepared to succeed in law school—primarily by challenging courses that helped me to develop analytical skills and by demanding writing requirements. The extensive writing experience gave me an edge in answering essay questions on law school exams.

38. Wish to apologize sincerely for not responding to the survey that was conducted in the wake of Dr. Downs’ passing. I was away and just could not get back to it on time. I consider Dr. Downs to be most understanding, charming, sympathetic, and with a unique sense of humor. When around him, I felt better about myself.

42. Thanks for the nice letter. Glad to hear you are doing well.

48. Small class sizes with constant contact with professors made my IPFW experience every bit as valuable as a much more expensive private school education. I am certain that my education was as good as any of my peer’s educations. My success in law school proved it. Many thanks to IPFW!

53. I think all majors should be required to take a child development class. I had years of education but was prepared the least for the career I’ve had the longest—parent. It wouldn’t hurt anyone to learn about children. If you never have any, at least you’ll slightly understand and have empathy for those who do—something that boosts everyone’s humanity. I was a transfer student to IPFW (from another state) and found the political science program to be very interesting. Kudos to the professors for conveying their enthusiasm for the subject matter to us.

61. I look back at all my courses both undergrad and law school and I most enjoyed those in the political science arena and history. Both are interests I have some 10 years later. I am very proud to have gone to IPFW and to be a political science major.

62. Item II: Don’t discount input from military. It’s a large employer and one of the few who value a political science degree. Item 14: By being in the military my ability to openly engage in these activities is limited. Once, I retire in 2013, I will again be aggressively involved in local government. Last! I’m delighted to hear Andy is a permanent fixture of the department and the university is expanding! Cheers!

64. Kudos to the department. I love the well-rounded education I got at IPFW.

66. Good luck to Andrew Downs! I still miss his wonderful father, Prof. Downs, as do so many others. Please give my regards to Mary.

68. Georgia worked with me to get into law school. She took the time to make sure that nothing was left undone. I am forever grateful. Dr. Downs was an inspiration to us all. Dr. Lutz was a fascinating instructor whom I enjoyed immensely. One of the strongest departments at the university with the best faculty.

74. I cannot stress enough how important these people were to my present and future in academia.

76. Job placement would have been nice after graduation.

84. By far the most important part of my political science education was Mike Downs. It’s not overstating to say he changed my life. He challenged me constantly and I’m better for it. He’s so very missed.

85. None…except that I’m appreciative of IPFW and its staff.

86. I think some type of alumni support into job searching would be helpful.

88. I would like to have seen more comparative classes or third world politics. Maybe more of an international focus in some of the higher level classes. But, I loved all the philosophy and politics, too.

92. My political science degree from IPFW and training served as an excellent preparation for grad school in political science. I came into grad school with a familiarity with many of the readings that were assigned.

93. In a couple of weeks I will be meeting with a missions organization, Summer Institutes of Linguistics (SIL), in Washington, D.C., to coordinate an internship for Fall 2007. SIL has a need for “Government Relations Specialists,” which involves working abroad, probably in a third-world nation, coordinating the mission’s work with the respective national government, and often with the United Nations, the World Bank, and other IGOs. SIL is one of the premier linguistics organizations in the world, with 300 PhDs and 1300 MAs in membership. They help people groups become literate in their own spoken language, and eventually translate the Bible into the groups’ languages (in cooperation with Wycliffe Bible Translators).

I am very excited about this opportunity. SIL has been very receptive to my interest, largely due to the B.A. in POLS/ECON from IPFW. I believe this is the position the Lord is leading me to, though I’m still watching and praying.