Opportunity offers political insight

by Nune Gazdhyan
Features Editor

University of La Verne students have an opportunity to become involved with the process of tracking candidates for presidency, Congress and state-level positions for the 2000 elections by interning with Project Vote Smart's headquarters this winter at the Great Divide Ranch in Montana.

This opportunity is made possible to ULV students by a grant from the Hearst Foundation. It will provide participants who commit to a minimum of 10 weeks with financial support that ranges from free room and board to scholarships up to $1,200.

"It is so important for students to be aware of our political processes and what's happening in our United States but also the world globally," said Dr. Loretta Rahmani, dean of student affairs.

"The reason why Project Vote Smart was started is that we're trying to help inform voters. A lot of times the issues are not clear, because candidates go around the issue or don't address them," said Aili Langseth, Project Vote Smart internship coordinator. "We inform the public of the issues, the candidate's positions and background to collect information and keep them accurate.

"That's where the interns come in."

Langseth said the interns also run the toll-free research hotline that voters can call to get information regarding a certain election, the issues involved and its candidates.

Also, interns help conduct research for the National Political Research Test, which is a test customized for each state that candidates take to which determine their stance and views on issues.

The tests are used to compile accurate information about candidate's points of views and are made available to the public.

"Living in a democracy and not participating in the democratic process is pointless. The more of us that participate the larger the effect," said sophomore international studies major Anna Maria Roy.

Both graduate and undergraduate students with majors in political science, communications, journalism and computer science are encouraged to apply. However, all majors are accepted. ULV students who decide to participate in the program will be joined by students throughout the United States and foreign universities.

"I think that people should be involved and aware. Voting is having a voice in our democratic system and whatever they [students] can do to be involved is fundamental," said Dr. Rahmani.

For information regarding the internship, or Project Vote Smart in general, contact Langseth at (888) 868-3762.