Leave Your Mark on The Cal Poly Political Science Department

Meet some of our current students and alums and read about their experiences here at Cal Poly!

 

Madison Mairs 

"Being a founder, president, and ultimately a member of the Cal Poly Chapter of BridgeUSA (see story on back cover) has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my Cal Poly experience thus far. These experiences have provided me with countless opportunities and connections, changing how I approach viewing and discussing politics for the better. In the last few years, I have been honored to watch this club grow from a vision Oliver put in Grace and my heads freshman year in the dorms to a reality which has taught me so much and brought about so many amazing opportunities for Cal Poly. We have also worked directly with ASI to host on-campus events alongside the biweekly discussion meetings to fulfill the initiatives of BridgeUSA at Cal Poly. From attending and leading these discussions, I have not only learned more about many topics and gained valuable insight from opinions varying from my own, but I have also gained the ability to look at political matters from different perspectives and appreciate the importance of fully understanding an issue from every side.  Working with BridgeUSA has taught me how to lead and view controversial topics from various points of view, becoming one of the most formative experiences from my time at Cal Poly."

Paloma Noelle Nava 

"I’m Paloma Noelle Nava, a fourth-year blended political science major and master of public policy student with a pre law concentration. My policy areas of interest include immigration, education, tribal and environmental policy. During my time at Cal Poly, I have been able to practice the lessons I learned in the classroom in the field through my internships in Washington, D.C., and within SLO. I first started in the department as a social media coordinator and was later promoted to student assistant. In the department, I served as a student representative to the POLS Alumni Advisory Board, assisted with events like Spring Dinner and the Let’s Talk Politics Lecture Series, managed our weekly newsletter, and social media platforms. Once I complete my MPP, I hope to attend law school and specialize in international human rights law or immigration law. I want to become a practicing attorney and defend at-risk communities. "

Ben Hamik 

"I’m Ben Hamik, a political science and master of public policy graduate focused on governance, institutional leadership and public service. During college, I served as an Elections Operations Intern for the County of San Luis Obispo, where I helped coordinate 800 election workers across 68 polling locations, trained large groups of poll workers and supported safe, lawful voting during high-pressure moments. That experience reinforced what motivates me most: the mindset of leaving things better than I found them. Within the department, I carried that principle into creating a centralized Canvas page to serve as a lasting home base for students navigating clubs, classes, faculty and opportunities. If I’ve left a mark, I hope it’s one rooted in service, initiative and a commitment to building institutions that work better for the people they serve."

Tyler Coari 

"Tyler Coari recently completed his master’s in public policy degree in December 2025, following his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science in June 2024. Grounded by his lived experiences, supportive community and faith, Tyler is committed to building a more just, peaceful and prosperous world. During his time at Cal Poly, Tyler interned for multiple legislative offices, became deeply engaged in San Luis Obispo local government and politics and cultivated lasting relationships throughout the community through student government. Now working as a full-time Cal Poly employee, Tyler hopes his legacy within the POLS department reflects a dedication to community service that extends far beyond isolated volunteer efforts, one that becomes woven into the fabric of everyday life. Ride high, Mustangs!"