One of Iowa State’s former campus political leaders has made her way to Washington, where she spends her days mixing with the top U.S. leaders.

Molly Klein, a newly appointed staff assistant for U.S. Rep. Leonard Boswell, D-Iowa, graduated in December from Iowa State with a degree in political science and international studies.

“I have always been interested in public service, and working for Congressman Boswell is an effective way to help Iowans,” said Klein, former president of the ISU Democrats.

Her duties at Boswell’s Washington office include directing phone calls, mail and other communications and greeting visitors when they arrive at the office. Klein also coordinates constituent requests for flags and serves as the intern coordinator.

Klein said her involvement with the ISU Democrats connected her with people and issues that were important in preparing for her job.

“When you are in college, you have the time, the energy and the idealism to make a difference,” she said. “Take advantage of that.”

The best way to get involved is to “find something you feel very strongly about,” Klein said.

The best courses for students who want to work in the government or politics would be any class relating to elections or political parties, she said. Classes about international politics or U.S. or foreign governments are helpful as well, Klein said.

Jim Hutter, associate professor of political science, said Iowa State is a great place to start for those who have political ambitions.

“A great number of ISU students have gone on to be very active and important in both Democratic and Republican politics,” he said.

The state of Iowa has a strong “reputation for producing good politicians,” Hutter said

“Iowa is one of the best states for students to get involved and active in politics,” he said.