6 Questions with a UNH Political Science Major
How does college prepare you for the future? How can you translate your college education to the real world? Welcome back to our Student Spotlight series, where you can meet real UNH students, explore college life through their eyes and learn more about why they love UNH. Meet Diego Mazariegos '25, a political science and justice studies dual major.
Diego Mazariegos '25
1. Why did you choose UNH?
I chose UNH because my family took a tour of the campus and we really fell in love with Durham. It’s a great area to walk, grab a bite to eat, be outdoors and hang out with classmates.
I was searching for a college that offered not only a wide range of academic opportunities, but also plentiful options for internships, clubs and extracurricular activities. In this regard, UNH was the perfect match. It has allowed me to engage with a wide array of clubs, cultivate friendships and excel academically.
As a political science student, I was particularly excited to attend college in a swing state where politicians frequently visit campus. I've been fortunate to have opportunities to engage with and ask questions to many candidates seeking votes in New Hampshire.
I worked as a Research Associate for the Federalist Society in Washington, D.C.
2. How did you choose your major?
I was admitted as a computer science student. I switched to psychology and then ultimately switched to political science.
I never took any government courses in high school because I was more of a math guy — I liked the fact that there was always a “right” answer as long as you did the calculations correctly. However, growing up, we’re often told that college is a place where we get to explore what truly interests us. I’ve always been captivated by our country’s institutions and the roles they play, which ultimately led me to pursue political science as my primary field of study.
Diego and other UNH College of Liberal Arts Fellows
3. What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned at UNH so far?
The most important lesson I’ve learned during my time at UNH is the value of waking up early. While it may seem trivial or simplistic, this habit embodies a principle that is invaluable both in life and especially in college — time is precious, and it passes more quickly than we realize. We all have far less time than we think, so the best approach is to get started early and make the most of the day by winning the morning.
At the end of a long day, whether I feel tired, happy, excited or even unwell, I never feel regret, because I know starting early gives me the chance to give things my best shot, regardless of the outcome. I can’t always guarantee results, but I can control the process that has led to success more often than not. For me, controlling my process begins with waking up early, empowering me to take charge of my life.
As President of the UNH Model United Nations, I traveled to the Galapagos Islands to compete and win an Outstanding Delegation Award.
4. What do you love about being in the College of Liberal Arts?
Being in the College of Liberal Arts means that I have access to a wide range of professors and lecturers who I can always reach out to for questions and advice about post-graduation plans and coursework material. Also, in the College of Liberal Arts, I have come into contact with some truly intelligent peers and friends who have challenged me on an intellectual level to view the world in new ways.
Diego at the College of Liberal Arts Fellows luncheon
5. How do you think your UNH education has prepared you for career and professional success?
My liberal arts education has offered me the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects, helping me not only discover my passions, but also to clarify the areas that don’t align with my long-term goals. As I prepare to enter post-undergrad life, I feel confident that the breadth of my studies has provided me with a well-rounded perspective, leaving little room for doubt or lingering questions about paths I could have taken.
I’m particularly grateful for my political science education, which exposed me to diverse topics and ideas, from governance and policy to societal issues and global challenges. This exposure has equipped me with critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the complexities in the world, preparing me to engage meaningfully in future endeavors.
I served as President of the UNH Model United Nations.
6. What are your plans for after graduation?
Upon graduating from UNH, my goal is to secure employment that will allow me to gain valuable professional experience before applying to law school. I see this period as an essential opportunity to further develop critical skills like research, communication and problem-solving in a real-world context, whether in a legal-related field, public policy or a professional setting that enhances these competencies.
Following this, I plan to apply to and attend law school, confident in my ability to succeed in a competitive and challenging environment. I am focused on finding an institution that not only offers a strong academic foundation, but also provides practical experiences, networking opportunities and a robust curriculum that will equip me with the tools necessary to become an outstanding lawyer. By gaining professional experience post-graduation and honing my abilities prior to law school, I will be well-prepared to tackle complex challenges and pursue a successful legal career.
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6 Questions with a UNH History Major
How can you balance academics and hobbies in college? How can you get real-world experience while in college? Welcome back to our Student Spotlight series, where you can meet real UNH students, see campus through their eyes and learn more about why they love UNH. Meet Maximillian DiGiovanni '25, a history and political science double major. read more about Max
