A time-honored quote from Robert F. Kennedy, “Some men see things as they are and say why; I dream things that never were, and say why not?,” inspired Nicholas Bates ’18 to pursue the fascinating world of politics.
Now, a senior majoring in political science at SJC Long Island and serving as the vice president of SJC’s Political Science Club, Bates’ college career began at SUNY Fredonia.
“After my first semester at SUNY Fredonia, I decided to come home to Long Island and work while going to school,” Bates said. “My brother had gone to SJC, so I knew how great it was from all of his stories. I can honestly say that making the switch was one of the better decisions that I have made in my life.”
After transferring to SJC, Bates made the most of his college experience, taking advantage of the many opportunities for hands-on experience that were available to him, which even included an internship in Washington, D.C.
“So far, I have participated in two internships that relate to my field and am currently pursuing a third,” Bates said. “I interned for Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone in the Office of Constituent Affairs, and for the Democratic Party on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce in Washington, D.C.”
In his senior year, Bates is exploring the many career opportunities that lay ahead of him. From graduate school to political communications or running for office, his options are vast.
“Political science is such a broad, fun major,” he said. “It is hard to pick one career path without thinking of whatever else you may want to do.”
Regardless of what he chooses to do in the future, Bates credits SJC with the preparation and skills that will be most valuable to him in his career.
“SJC has already prepared me incredibly well for whatever career I choose,” Bates said. “SJC’s political science program is such a well-developed program with professors who truly care about the success of their students. Without a doubt, SJC has the perfect mixture of classes and programs that can complement any major.”
