2026-27 President's Scholars

Eric Paulsen

Bernard and Lucie Bidart President’s Scholar 2026-27

Major: Politicial Science

College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences

Activities: 2026 Panetta Institute Congressional Intern; Peace Corps Campus Ambassador; Los Angeles County Student Professional Worker; Los Angeles County Elections Assistant; Business Services Student Leader, University Housing Services; Former Orientation Leader; Former California College Corps Fellow

Eric Paulsen decided to major in political science to reach his goal of becoming a lawyer. He wanted to better understand government, public policy and the legal system while developing the critical thinking, research and analytical skills needed for law school. His studies have strengthened his commitment to public service and advocacy. Eric represented Cal Poly Pomona for the 2026 Panetta Institute Congressional Internship, serves as a Peace Corps campus ambassador and has worked with Los Angeles County as both a student professional worker and elections assistant. On campus, he served as a business services student leader with University Housing Services and previously as an orientation leader and California College Corps Fellow. Eric credits his parents with teaching him the importance of integrity, service and giving back to his community. Outside of school, he enjoys spending time in nature, reading and listening to the Harry Potter audiobooks narrated by Stephen Fry. He hopes to build a legal career in public service, government or elected office.