Lindsey Wetmiller ’07 was a government major from Shelburne, Vt.  She was a member of the Thelomathesian Society (student government), Model United Nations and SLU Republicans.  She also served as a student delegate to the Alumni Executive Council. After graduating, she took a position in business development with the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, doing marketing and public relations projects and events.

A Closer Look: What the Major Accomplishes
By Lindsay Wetmiller ’07

A recent job interview reiterated for me how much my government major will help me upon graduation from St. Lawrence.  The organization that I was interviewing with was seeking a candidate with excellent written and oral communication skills, the ability to conduct meaningful research, and proven critical thinking skills.  My major focused on all of these aspects, providing a broad set of qualifications that translate to virtually any career situation. 
As a government major, I was required to take four introductory classes and a number of electives as I progressed through the curriculum.  One of the most important courses I took was the seminar Issues in the Study of Public Policy.  The course was a turning point in my major because I truly learned the art and science of “professional” writing.  My professor walked us through the process of establishing a thesis, generating the research to prove it and presenting it in a polished final paper.  These are skills I will no doubt use in any career I follow. 

The students in my classes always came ready to engage themselves as well as challenge classmates and our professors.  Class discussions were often fast-paced and heated.  My major has improved my ability to articulate my own stance on issues while listening carefully to opposing arguments.  I’m not afraid to admit when I’ve changed my mind, but I’ve also achieved the confidence to stand my ground.  Finding this balance is a skill that isn’t necessarily teachable, but comes with experience. I found it while majoring in government, but I know that it’s acquired in the other majors at St. Lawrence as well.