Tucson Standard

University of Arizona students had the opportunity to gain unique insights into the American presidency through a specialized course, Political Science 205: The American Presidency. This spring semester class featured recorded interviews with former White House officials and other experts, providing students with a deeper understanding of presidential roles and civic discourse.

The course is taught by Pete Seat, a former White House spokesman and University of Arizona alumnus. It is available online and attracts students from various locations worldwide. Seat conducted interviews with notable figures such as former Vice President Mike Pence, former White House chiefs of staff Josh Bolten and Ron Klain, and Kristen Welker, moderator of "Meet the Press."

Through these interviews, students learned about crafting presidential speeches, building cabinets, political strategies, and governmental interactions. Pete Seat emphasized the importance of connecting students to real-world experiences to encourage civic participation. "I strongly feel that if we want to encourage civic participation, students need a connection to the real world," he stated.

Will Gibson, a political science major who took the class in spring, expressed his appreciation for the guest interviews. "Professor Seat assembled a remarkable lineup," Gibson said. He found their perspectives on public service inspiring.

Pete Seat shared his own experiences working in the White House to help demystify the roles within it. In an interview with former White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest, students were surprised by Earnest's access to President Obama due to an open-door policy.

Assignments in the course challenged students to engage in civic activities like writing letters to newspaper editors or simulating presidential decision-making processes. Caleb Charlie, an undergraduate law major aspiring for future political roles, noted how these exercises highlighted the responsibilities borne by presidents.

Seat hopes that this practical approach will inspire more questions among students about governance processes. Edella Schlager, director of the School of Government and Public Policy at UArizona praised the course for encouraging active student engagement in public affairs.

One student admitted she enrolled because she felt embarrassed by her lack of knowledge about presidential functions—a sentiment that resonated with Seat's mission for teaching this class.

"That's why I'm here too," said Seat regarding his commitment to educating others about presidential responsibilities.