Sparked by the national conversation surrounding the 2016 U.S. presidential election, Angel Carrillo’s (BA ‘25) interest in politics and government began early. That passion led Carrillo to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a minor in History from the College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (CHESS) at Purdue University Northwest (PNW).
“In middle school I became really interested in the political processes of the U.S.,” says Carrillo. “I wanted to understand how elections and the federal and state governments work. Throughout high school I really enjoyed my classes in history and government and that’s when I knew I wanted to pursue a degree in political science and work with government.”
While at PNW, Carrillo served as a teaching assistant for both political science and English courses. As a TA for a political science research methods course, the Monon, Indiana, native researched immigration and crime in the United States and presented his paper, “Examining the Impacts of Immigration on Crime in the United States,” at PNW’s 2025 Days of Discovery.
People are also reading…
Carrillo was a member of both the Model United Nations and Model Illinois Government teams and Pi Sigma Alpha, the national political science club.
In addition, Carrillo completed an internship with the Calumet City, Illinois, Department of Community and Economic Development. As an intern, he worked on researching businesses, assisting with grant writing and helping plan and set up city-sponsored events.
After earning his degree in December 2025, Carrillo began his career working full time for the city of Calumet City. He plans to eventually pursue a master’s degree in public policy. His long-term goal is to serve as a congressional staffer, working behind the scenes to support the legislative process.
The professors encouraged me to go outside of my comfort zone, join extracurricular activities and develop the skills I’ll need after graduation.
Angel Carrillo, ‘26, Political Science
What did you like most about the political science program at PNW?
“Definitely the professors. The classes they taught were incredibly interesting and engaging. They encouraged me to go outside of my comfort zone, join extracurricular activities and develop the skills I’ll need after graduation. They expanded my interest in politics and political systems not just in the U.S. but worldwide.”
How do you think your involvement in campus organizations and activities helped define your success at PNW?
“I was able to break out of my shell and get to know other people through these activities. I developed professional skills that will definitely help me in the future. Participating in the Model U.N. and Model Illinois Government really helped strengthen my professional speaking skills and build my confidence in speaking to large groups. My days as a teaching assistant taught me how to support and guide others by expanding my people skills. Participating in Days of Discovery, I developed thorough research skills that I used during my internship and earned praise from my supervisor – even receiving a full-time job offer.”
Did you have a pivotal experience while attending PNW?
“My time at Model U.N. was not only pivotal but a character changing experience for me. I was shy, kept to myself and really didn’t talk much, especially in class. Being involved in Model U.N. helped me become comfortable not only with public speaking, but also getting to know other people. I also learned the value of having a network of people I could talk with who had similar interests.”
What words of advice would you share with prospective students looking to attend PNW?
“Talk to people and make connections. Develop a social and professional network. Getting to know professors and other students is important and can open doors you don’t expect.”
Was there anyone at PNW who inspired or encouraged you along the way?
“These two professors were the most influential for me. They really helped me set a path for myself with regards to a career and the profession I want to pursue.”
Meet PNW's 2026 graduates
From working heavy construction to starting a career in professional hockey, discover how Purdue University Northwest’s 2026 graduates are taking the next step toward proud futures.
