Government Intensives

Project Pathfinder’s Government Intensives are 2-day simulations that give students a crash course in politics and government.

Intensive Overview

What is a Government Intensive?

Government Intensives are simulations designed to take government (something that is usually taught through books and lectures) and turn it into a full-scale interactive learning process that engages the students on multiple levels. Teens learn best when they can employ all of their senses. Thus, in each of these courses, students get to take on characters and roles and learn by actually doing things.

Each Intensive is unique in its content and subject matter. However, all of them are designed to have limited amounts of lectures and large amounts of hands-on practice. They are each designed to teach young people the basics of government and civic responsibility in an exciting and engaging way that brings it to life before their eyes.

Intensive Overview
Students engaged in classroom

Interactive Learning

Students engage, make decisions, and see the consequences of their actions in a safe educational environment.

Student leading group discussion

Leadership Development

Foster critical thinking, decision-making, and public speaking skills that prepare students for future leadership roles.

Speaker at UN podium with blue flag

Expert-Led Instruction

Project Pathfinder’s experienced staff guides students through complex political scenarios and discussions.

Explore Our Leadership Intensives

Two smiling students shake hands beneath arched windows at a brick building entrance

iElect: Presidential Election Simulation

A hands-on mock presidential campaign where students experience every phase of the electoral process, from primaries and caucuses to fundraising and voting. Participants join political parties, develop platforms, and compete for votes.

Students in blazers and bow ties stand applauding during a mock Senate session

iAdvocate: Congressional Simulation

Students experience the legislative process by drafting and advocating for bills in this Congressional simulation. Participants navigate competing priorities between personal goals, party objectives, and professional agreements while debating and voting on legislation.

Courtroom with lawyer addressing panel

iAdvocate Westminster: Comparative Government and Politics Simulation

This simulation transforms students into Members of Parliament, drafting and passing legislation. As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, this experience is designed to help American students better understand and appreciate their own constitutional system by comparing it to a form of government that both influenced and contrasts with the American model.

iCommand Image

iCommand: Foreign Policy Crisis Simulation

Students act as executive branch members responding to international crises in this foreign policy simulation. Participants take roles in the State Department, Defense, and Intelligence agencies, experiencing the consequences of U.S. foreign policy decisions in real-time.

iObject Image

iObject: Grand Jury Simulation

This Grand Jury simulation places students at the heart of the judicial system investigating a 1930s mob murder. Participants question witnesses, examine evidence, and determine if there’s sufficient proof to bring suspects to trial.

iNegotiate

iNegotiate: International Diplomacy and Human Rights Simulation

Students act as international ambassadors in this United Nations simulation. Participants navigate diplomatic complexities while balancing national priorities, protecting sovereignty, and solving global challenges.

Host a Government Intensive

Project Pathfinder's Government Intensives can be hosted by conferences, schools, clubs, or other groups with 30-150+ students ages 13-18 years old. Our team works with you to plan venue space, set up student registration, and create an amazing experience for your attendees.

one

Initial Consultation

Use the form below to schedule a call with Elissa Kruse to discuss goals, schedule, and program options.

two

Program Selection

Choose one of the simulation options and work with our team to schedule a date and set up student registration.

three

On-Site Facilitation

Our team provides materials and conducts the intensive at your location.

Government Intensive Info Call

Lets meet to discuss the details and answer any questions about bringing one of our intensives to your event.