Published on Show Me Mizzou Dec. 17, 2025
First-year students have the chance to start college life at Mizzou by connecting with others interested in history and politics through the Kinder Institute’s Democracy Lab. Through a two-semester sequence of small discussion-based seminars, students dive into the revolutionary history and constitutional traditions of democracy in the U.S. and abroad.
Outside the classroom, the Democracy Lab fosters community through field trips, social events and academic programs led by undergraduate and graduate fellows. With honors and non-honors options, reserved courses, behind-the-scenes access to Kinder Institute programs, and need- and merit-based scholarships, the Democracy Lab is a gateway to learning, leadership and lifelong connections.
Returning students dive further into the history and evolving ideas of democracy in the U.S. and worldwide through the Society of Fellows. Beginning with an all-expenses paid summer conference at the Tiger Hotel, Fellows engage in a community of inquiry through monthly events like faculty lectures, film screenings and student-designed outings. The program blends history, politics and law with art, literature and music, offering opportunities such as contributing to the Journal on Constitutional Democracyand joining a poetry and politics book club.
To read more articles like this, become a Mizzou Alumni Association member and receive MIZZOU magazine in your mailbox. Click here to join.
