Suits, Speeches, and Sincerity: A long road to become a Politician

[WVM2]

I am not sure how many of you know me on this board, or how many of you I have talked to about my views, goals, and aspirations in life, but I have, since the tender age of 7, been keenly interested in my country's politics, how society works, and how my society functions in general. I have volunteered for my party of choice several times before, and have even met with the former leader of the party I support (may he rest in peace), as my father wrote his speeches for many of his rallies.

After many years of wrestling with personal, social, and psychological issues, I have finally come to a point in my life where I have some control over the direction of my life. I have decided that, due to my nature, and my beliefs, I want to be not just involved in the political process, but eventually run myself. I have run into a bit of a snag in this regard though, due to my past and my ... problems I have been overcoming, I do not have the marks or the experience to be able to get into a program of merit, nor do I have the financial leeway to force my way into a program of my choosing.

I do, however, have drive, spirit, and a pinch too much stubbornness to back out of what I see as a way for me to try and change the world around me and fulfill what I feel is a role I have the necessary talents and disposition for.

My questions to you all are thus;
1) How would you recommend I go about enrolling in a University of high merit?
2) What should I pursue, in your opinion, socially to further my “resume” and my understanding of how my country functions?
3) what would you suggest I do to create the necessary contacts for myself in those circles?
and finally,
4) Does my financial and social background destroy my chances at success, or just give my opposition ammunition if I ever become a threat?

[OldTrees]

I do not have any answer to those questions but I offer this warning.

We can see many examples of corruption in politicians and the corrupt politicians seem to have an advantage when running for election. Yet we usually hate corruption. The path to entering politics is likely fraught with sources of corruption. Be careful along the path to try to never make a choice you will live to regret.

[Hyroen]

Through all our conversations in chat I can say I'm happy that you're taking steps towards happiness.

Good for you WVM2.

[Sevs]

The easiest way to get into a University of high merit is sports with a high GPA. Many top schools have coaches that are very influential in the admissions process. An easy one is Cross country or track as it takes no previous skill but requires mental toughness and dedication.

Good luck.

[Kynthea]

   I would love to help you on your chosen path as it doesn't sound much different from some of my past struggles. Unfortunately there are two issues, First and foremost while I have quite a bit of experience in the matter it ONLY pertains to the United States political system which may or may not be applicable. Secondly with the information provided here I am unable to give any answers beyond "general" advice.

1. To your first question without a bit more information the best advice I can give is the rehashed crap you have heard all your life "well roundedness" (a painfully vague term in and of itself); participation in school sanctioned sports - team sports are typically preferable to individual sports; Decent gpa, doesn't need to be stellar just don't be at the bottom of the barrel; Finally and most importantly volunteer work, with your interest in politics it doesn't need to be mundane work like a soup kitchen...get out there and support your party, if you contact them through the appropriate sources they are almost always willing to give you something to do and trust me they like younger supporters.

2.  Attend local government meetings, try to get internships with politicians or lawyers as politics and law will always be intertwined. also community service I can not stress that enough

While at University I would push you towards a "pre-law" degree if you are dead set on politics. With that being said the actual pre-law degree that many places offer is complete garbage,  personally I would advise you to take a degree in philosophy or political science and make sure you take every opportunity to improve your writing and speaking skills.

3. If you are doing work for your political party or manage to get an internship, start networking the contacts will come naturally

4. To be honest I can't give you any advice here without knowing precisely what you are concerned about, however, I understand that it's probably not something you want to post on an open forum.

   In conclusion most of the above advice is very general and I'm sure you have heard it plenty of times before. As far as your financial and social background I can probably answer those questions more thoroughly if you wanted to PM me with specific questions. Finally, as aforementioned I only really have experience with the United States system so I won't really be of much use if the system and laws here aren't applicable. If you have any further questions don't hesitate to PM me or the like.

I look forward to hearing from you,

~Jacqueline