A Career in Politics

Friday, April 20

Andrew Porwancher moderates political careers forum.    PHOTO BY: Ajinur Setiwaldi

More than 80 people attended an event on Friday at Zarrow Hall featuring five government employees who discussed their political career experiences with students.

The Institute for American Constitutional Heritage, Carl Albert Center and the Political Science Club sponsored the event to get student thinking about careers in politics, IACH professor Andrew Porwancher said. The event is meant to allow students to get different perspectives of what it is like have political career, according to the Department of Political Science.

Porwancher organized and moderated the panel.

The panel included the deputy legal council from the Oklahoma Governor's Office, the director of communications for Lt. Governor Todd Lamb's office, an official from the US Department of Agriculture, a White House Cabinet Affairs employee and the public affairs director for Governor Mary Fallin, according to the event flyer.

Panelist discussed various aspects of their political careers with students and gave them advice on finding opportunities for and establishing careers in the political arena.

Politics isn't very glamorous; it takes a lot of hard work, Kelili McEwen, the public affairs director for Governor Mary Fallin's office, said.

“If you want to work in politics don't be afraid to get into trenches,” McEwen said.

Chad Maisel, a White House Cabinet Affairs employee, discussed the importance of networking in politics. Every office has its politics but conversation and collaboration is important, he said.

“Government workers are some of the hardest worker,” Maisel said.

Those who work in the political arena have a high degree of responsibility and accountability, Ashley Kehl, the director of communications for Governor Mary Fallin's office, said.

“Be politically minded,” Kehl said. “There is going to be a consequence for everything that comes out your mouth.”

After the discussion, there was a speed-networking session for students to discuss their career goals with the panelist.

This is the kind of event that should appeal to graduates interested in politics, Porwancher said.
It's important for students to understand what political careers are available and how they can start planning, he said.

A similar event may be held next year if there is a student interest, Porwancher said.

Sources:
Andrew Porwancher
IACH Professor
porwancher@ou.edu

Event Flyer

Panelists