After Graduation

Our students pursue advanced degrees or establish careers in both public and private sectors. Political science alumni work in several fields, including:

• Law enforcement
• Education
• Non-profit organizations
• Journalism
• Public administration
• Law
• Government 
• Global 
• Peace Corps

Visit Hope’s alumni page for info on resources and services 

Recent Graduates

Jonathan Snavely ’13

After graduating, Jonathan worked for members of the Michigan House of Representatives representing Holland’s 90th district, gaining insight into the legislative process and working on issues like criminal justice reform. However, in keeping with a goal born out of a senior project on American agrarianism while on the Washington Honors Semester, he left the Michigan legislature in 2015 and began to work as staff on farms practicing sustainable agriculture. He’s worked with everything from citrus trees to mixed produce to heritage pigs. While discussing food and agricultural policy with farmers, he began to see the ways his diverse interests intersect at a human scale. Understanding the immense role that law and public policy can play in the lives of individuals and communities, he began seeking ways to leverage his undergraduate and working experience to help. He settled on law school as a natural next step, even as part of an unusual journey, and is now at the University of Michigan Law School.

Renee Wynveen ’12

Project development officer for ACTED, Juba, South Sudan

Michael Douma ’04

Director of the Institute of Marketing and Ethics, Georgetown University

Elizabeth Slentz ’03

Defense contracting firm DELTA Resources, Washington, D.C.

Jonathan DeWitte ’98

Chief of Staff for Representative Bill Huizenga

Jonathan has fully utilized his political science degree from Hope by putting it to work in a number of staff and campaign positions for multiple members of Congress and on a campaign for governor. Since 2011, he has served as Congressman Huizenga’s (MI-02) chief of staff. His greatest accomplishment to date is the ability to serve the good people of West Michigan through Congressman Huizenga’s office. On a daily basis, he is helping to make West Michigan a better place to live, work and play.

During his time at Hope, and well after graduation, professors and staff have been a resource and supportive whenever he needed help or advice. The single most impactful event of his time at Hope was the Washington Honors Semester; getting off of campus for a semester and exploring career aspirations should be a priority for all students.