Some Advice to Conservative Students..............
Ok, you are conservative. So what? Do you know it means to embrace conservative political ideology? It's not the same thing as being a republican. Conservatism comes from a long line of political philosophy--one that embraces change but also priorities order, fairness, proportionality, and justice. You see, being a "conservative" is more encompassing that being against gun control, for this, or against that. It is about understanding the nature of the relationship between the individual and the state. It is about limiting governmental power, about embracing freedom and liberty, and about keeping our institutions strong and vibrant.
If you are going to make it as a college student, we strongly advise you against seeing every perceived slight, every criticism, and every comment from your professors as a personal attack on you. The job of a professor is to make you think--to challenge your views, to present you with evidence, and to open your mind. This is uncomfortable but we encourage you to take it seriously. There are some really awesome liberal professors. Learn from them, and remember, they may be a bit more conservative than you realise.
Moreover, if you are going to be an educated conservative, follow in the footsteps of great conservative thinkers. Lean a language, take some courses in the humanities, and think about entering the social sciences. Conservatives have always been interested in elevating culture and in understanding our institutions and social relationships. Don't let all the liberal fluff get in the way of your learning. When you do encounter the liberal professor who uses the classroom as a political indoctrination camp, be respectful, engaging, and intellectual. You might be surprised at what can come out of an intellectual engagement. If it just ain't going to work....vote with your feet.
We also want to encourage you to become active on campus. Join a club. Bring in speakers. We, for example, are willing to come and talk to your organization. Engage and make your voice heard. It is only through you that some of the silly stuff that goes on will be stopped or appropriately modified.
Lastly, work hard. We need bright, talented, energetic, empirically minded conservatives to earn their Ph.D's. Academia needs you. Think about a career in the social sciences or the humanities. You might just find your calling.
