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Profile of the Study Association for Political Science Students in Leiden (SPIL).

The SPILfunction
SPIL is since 1986 the organization which provides about 800 political sciences students in Leiden with all kinds of services within the study of Political Science. Ordering study books, going on trips to destinations like Jerusalem, Berlin or New York and attending lectures from and debates with speakers like Frits Bolkestein (Dutch politician), Arendt Lijphart and Robert Putnam are all activities that are organized by the Study Association for Political Science Students in Leiden.

The Network
Social contacts and the development of a tight network are central themes during the activities of SPIL. Our magazine Debat for example fulfills part of our educational goals, while SPILmasterclasses and workshops are designed specifically to broaden the curricula of our members. The study trips to foreign countries, the monthly socials and SPIL parties also help to build up and sustain our social contacts and our network.

Who gets what, when and how..
The study of who gets what, when and how is not only an interesting field of research, it is also an excellent way to develop skills that are essential in higher management functions. Lobbying, agenda setting and keeping in control when faced with complex matters are not only known important concepts within the world of business, but also within political science. Our students are fully aware of these concepts and are well prepared during their education to take on these difficult tasks.

The big picture 
Interest in society and a broad employability characterize the résumé of the Political Scientist from Leiden. Therefore SPILactivities aim to illuminate as many different viewpoints on issues as possible. Knowledge of the main issues and the ability to take on strong opinions with valid arguments are central skills of our students. The up-to-date and complex issues of the political playingfield are represented within our association and members. From the practice of giving strategic advice to sharpening daily policies, our students know how to do it!