Analyzing the Field: Phillips Spends Week at New Hampshire Primaries

The year is 2020 and in the world of politics that means one thing: elections. Following the Iowa Caucus on Feb. 3, the attention shifted to the Feb. 11 New Hampshire Primaries. But for Temple field hockey freshman Megan Phillips, the focus of her semester has been on the New Hampshire Primaries.

As a public relations major, Phillips has access to any courses at the intersection of public relations and politics. Through her enrollment in the "Media and American Politics" course, Phillips was able to travel to New Hampshire for the days leading up to the primary. The class had the opportunity to be in the field with the top Democratic contenders.

"We went in there, we investigated, and talked with voters and went to rallies and town halls," said Phillips.

The trip consisted of five days on the ground in New Hampshire leading up to the primary, and
the class was tasked to write an article regarding the events surrounding the primary.

Phillips wrote an article investigating the similarities between the supporters of Pres. Trump and Sen. Sanders, analyzing the enthusiasm that the bases have regarding politics.

"They have different sorts of energy that you don't see in other political followings," explained Phillips.

While the entire experience was unforgettable, the time around the presidential hopefuls stood out.

"My favorite moments were to get up close and personal with the candidates," said Phillips.

Politicians are frequently joking about how often they have their picture taken, but to young students with political interest, it means the world. Phillips was able to take pictures with Elizabeth Warren, Andrew Yang, and a selfie with Bernie Sanders.

The trip was something that this group of students will be able to talk about their entire lives.

"Being in close quarters with these people who are so influential with our government is unbelievable," said Phillips.

Phillips and her classmates put in weeks of work leading into this trip.

"We had responsibilities leading up to the trip," she said. "We had to do research and keep up with the news."
Along with keeping up on current events, Phillips also had to research a minor candidate. In New Hampshire, anybody who meets the presidential requirements can get on the ballot for one thousand dollars.

While she is only a freshman, Phillips is setting her self up for success by taking opportunities like this. As a double major in PR and Communication and Social Influence, she is looking to gain professional experience in the public relations field, quite possibly in politics.

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Analyzing the Field: Phillips Spends Week at New Hampshire Primaries

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