AboutJohn C. Berg Expertise How to run for office and win, how to lobby, how to promote your political cause effectively, how to get involved in electoral and issue campaigns, how to get a job in politics.
Experience I have been a professor of political science since 1974, and direct a graduate program in professional politics. I have worked on many campaigns in various capacities.
Organizations American Association of Political Consultants, American Political Science Association, Caucus for a New Political Science, National Society for Experiential Education, International Political Science Association.
Publications Polity, New Political Science, Policy Studies Journal. Author of Unequal Struggle: Class, Gender, Race, and Power in the US Congress.
Education/Credentials PhD, Harvard University, 1975
MA, Harvard University, 1973
BA with Honors, University of Wisconsin, 1964
Expert: John C. Berg Date: 5/21/2007 Subject: Poltics
Question QUESTION: Mr. Berger, I am interested in someday pursuing a career in politics. I am currently sixteen, and am at a loss. I am not able to vote and not even considered a legal adult, so is there anything I can do to get involved in politics at such a young age?
PS: I have done volunteer work for the Pasco County Republican Party.
ANSWER: Dear Tyler,
You are on the right track with your volunteer work for the Republican Party. I would suggest also volunteering for individual campaigns, so that you will have experience, and that you work with organizations in your community, so that you will have a network when you want to run.
It is also useful to read the newspapers, follow current events, and gain an understanding of policy issues.
Finally, in politics it is important to learn and remember people's names -- it makes them feel that you care about them. In that regard, I notice that you address me as "Mr. Berger." In fact, my name is not Berger, but Berg!
All the best,
John
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QUESTION: Thank you for your Advice Mr Berg. One more question. How old or experienced does one need to be in order to become a page?
PS: Sorry about the name mistake.
Answer Dear Tyler,
Pages are usually high school students, so you are about the right age. Prior experience is not required -- just need to get a member of Congress to sponsor you!
You should inquire of your local member of Congress if you are interested.
