Introduction

One of the main objectives of the Cline Center for Democracy is to engage students in the study of democratic principles, issues and ideas. In furtherance of this objective the Center strives to involve students attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the life of the Center. Currently students can participate in activities of the Center in three principal ways:

1. By participating in Cline Symposium and/or Northern Trust Forum.

This participation may entail simply attending the various public lectures and activities associated with these events. However, the Cline Symposium and Northern Trust Forum also involve students in small group discussions led by distinguished alumni. These sessions challenge students to address crucial public issues. Students are chosen to participate in these sessions based upon faculty recommendations.

2. By working on a center based research program.

The Center conducts numerous research projects in furtherance of its goals and objectives. These projects provide opportunities for students to work with faculty members in conducting challenging and vital research. The Center routinely hires a large number of undergraduate and graduate students during the academic year as well as during the summer.

3. By enrolling in a Cline Center for Democracy Research Practicum.

The Center sponsors an undergraduate research seminar series that provides students with a unique learning experience that blends traditional course work with hands-on research using the Center’s archives and cyberinfrastructure. Students receive credit for PS 499. Multiple seminars are normally offered on a variety of topics related to the Center’s signature research initiative, the Societal Infrastructures and Development Project (SID). The seminars are designed by Center faculty and administered by teaching assistants. Students have access to the Center’s facilities and professional staff. Final reports are posted on the Center’s website; where appropriate press releases are issued.

4. By becoming a Civic Leadership Fellow.

More information about the Civic Leadership Program, including how to apply to the Program may be found on its website.  You can also read the Winter 2008 and Fall 2006 editions of the Civic Leadership Today newsletter that talks about the program and many of the activities that the Fellows engage in.

Another way for students to become engaged with the democratic process is to do an internship in Washington DC.  The Cline Center was heavily involved in the creation of the Illinois in Washington program, which facilitates internships in the Washington area for University of Illinois students.