The mission of the Department of Government and International Studies is to develop in students an informed and critical understanding of political ideas, political institutions and processes political behavior, and political events. The department also supports students' intellectual growth by developing their critical thinking and research skills and by asking them to reflect on matters such as citizenship, democracy, rights, and self-governance as practiced at home and abroad. A variety of academic internship and co-/extra-curricular opportunities challenge students to grow intellectually, better their community, and experience meaningful student work.