The Creation
In 2024, a new platform for student voices emerged from the University of Washington’s Political Science Department. Founded by Zoe Stylianides (Founder and Editor-in-Chief ‘24-‘25), the University of Washington Journal of Political Science (UWJPS) was created with a clear mission: to provide a dedicated space for students to share their exceptional academic work and engage meaningfully with the pressing political issues that shape our world.
“I started the UWJPS with the goal of creating a platform where students could share their exceptional work and engage meaningfully with the political issues that shape our world,” said Stylianides.
The journal was born from an identified need within the undergraduate experience. Reflecting on gaps in departmental programming, Stylianides recognized a lack of opportunity for students to showcase the high-quality research they were already producing in their classes and through programs like Honors and the Center for American Politics and Public Policy (CAPPP).
With the support of Political Science Chair Rachel Cichowski and Associate Chair James Long, a viable model for the journal was developed. This student-led initiative exists to spark conversation, showcase academic excellence, and build community around the study of political science and beyond.
The student response was immediate and overwhelming, confirming the journal's necessity. As Political Science Advisor Danny Ayala Robles noted, “Our undergraduate community quickly showed that this was something that was desired and needed. With minimal advertising... JPS received over 20 submissions each edition.”
How UWJPS Works
The journal releases three themed issues per academic year, featuring a mix of peer-reviewed student submissions, editorial pieces, and curated content. It is designed to be accessible, accepting both shorter papers from standard coursework and longer, more in-depth research projects.
How the Community Can Get Involved
The success of UWJPS depends on continued community engagement. There are two primary ways to get involved:
- For Students: Submit your work! The journal welcomes submissions from undergraduates across the social sciences. Visit the UWJPS website to view the inaugural Volume I, read submission guidelines, and learn about upcoming themes and deadlines.
- For Faculty: Provide crucial support as a faculty reviewer. Professors Cichowski and Long generously volunteered their time as the inaugural faculty reviewers. As the journal grows, expanding this pool of faculty reviewers is a key goal for the upcoming year. This support is vital for maintaining academic rigor and helps foster a stronger sense of faculty-student connection.
To get involved, ask questions, or learn more about the journal’s goals for the coming year, reach out to the editorial team at uwjournalpolsci@gmail.com.
Explore the journal and submit your work today: https://www.uwjps.com/