The University of Washington Journal of Political Science is an undergraduate student-led journal established in 2024. The UWJPS's mission is to give UW students a place and opportunity to showcase their exceptional work. It is also the goal of the UWJPS to cultivate conversation and engagement with a variety of significant events and topics in the field of political science and beyond. There will be 3 issues of the journal each academic year, consisting of student submissions of work, editorial pieces by the UWJPS staff, as well as other relevant materials to the quarterly theme and subject matter.

The Journal is supported by the Department of Political Science at the University of Washington. Each issue is reviewed by faculty in addition to the editorial staff.

Founder's Note

It is with great pride that I reflect on the founding of the University of Washington Journal of Political Science (UWJPS). What began as an idea to highlight undergraduate scholarship has become a publication that represents the strength, diversity, and intellectual curiosity of students within our department and beyond. The Journal was created to serve as a platform for undergraduate students to present their research to a broader audience, encourage critical engagement with political ideas, and contribute meaningfully to public discourse.

From its inception, UWJPS has sought to elevate student voices and provide an avenue for rigorous, thoughtful work to reach the wider political science community. Each article we publish demonstrates the depth of student inquiry and the importance of academic dialogue in understanding the complex political realities of our time. The Journal has become both an archive of undergraduate achievement and a testament to what can be built through collaboration, persistence, and shared purpose.

The growth of UWJPS has been a collective effort. Our editorial team has worked tirelessly to develop this publication from the ground up, ensuring that every issue reflects the highest standards of scholarship and integrity. I am deeply grateful to Professor Rachel Cichowski, Chair of the Department of Political Science, and Professor James D. Long, Associate Chair, for their invaluable guidance and support throughout this process. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to our Departmental Advisor, Daniel Ayala Robles, whose encouragement and commitment to student success have been instrumental to the Journal’s development.

Founding and leading UWJPS has been an extraordinary experience. It has shown me the power of student initiative and the value of creating spaces where ideas can grow freely. As the Journal continues to expand, I am confident that future editors and contributors will build upon this foundation and carry forward its mission to promote critical thinking, scholarly excellence, and civic engagement.

To our readers, authors, and supporters, thank you for believing in this vision and for being part of the Journal’s story.

Sincerely,

Zoe Stylianides

Founder and Editor-in-Chief 24'-25'