UMass Undergraduate Poll Fellow Program

As political scientists increasingly analyze quantitative data gathered from public opinion surveys, experiments, and text analysis, they are gaining powerful tools to understand public opinion and political behavior better.

The UMass Poll Fellows Program offers political science students a unique opportunity to dive into this evolving field, equipping them with valuable skills that open doors to diverse career paths in the private, public, or academic sectors.

Since 2023, the program has provided junior and senior undergraduate students with hands-on experience in analyzing public opinion data, guided by UMass Poll Co-Director Jesse Rhodes and Graduate Fellow Adam Eichen. Fellows gain experience designing poll questions; analyzing survey data; writing research reports; and giving professional presentations. Fellows even have the chance to co-author peer-reviewed academic publications with faculty members!   

In addition to gaining practical experience, students can earn up to three credits per semester for their participation. Juniors selected as fellows may also have the chance to continue the program into their senior year, further developing their expertise and enhancing their professional opportunities.