Exclusive Interview: Meet Award-Winning Student Carson Goh ’25 from the New England Political Science Conference!

For many voters, elections can feel overwhelming. However, for social scientists like Carson Goh, these moments are perfect for research. Goh, a government and quantitative social science double major at Dartmouth, recently earned the Wilson Carey McWilliams award for the best undergraduate research paper at the New England Political Science Conference in Newport, R.I. His paper, “Competition or Representation? How the Public Views Substantive and Descriptive Effects of Independent Redistricting Commissions,” investigates how minorities are represented in elections. Goh found that support for independent redistricting commissions declines when they seem threatening to majority-minority districts, where minority groups hold significant voting power.

Goh felt honored to win the award. He found out through a congratulatory email from his professor, Herschel Nachlis. Goh said he has spent several years on his research at Dartmouth, and receiving recognition was a significant moment for him.

Attending the conference allowed Goh to present his research alongside other students from New England. He explained how he prepared for this event by focusing on public opinion around political representation, particularly regarding how voters view majority-minority districts. Over the years, he conducted several survey experiments leading up to the conference, refining his ideas and findings.

Goh’s interest in political research stems from his background in southern New Hampshire, where contested elections piqued his curiosity. He aims to understand the mechanics behind voting patterns and representation. He believes exploring these aspects can shed light on why people vote the way they do.

For those considering a career in political research, Goh offers practical advice: focus on an area that sparks your interest. He emphasizes the importance of grasping topics that resonate personally, especially issues like minority representation that can shape political landscapes. At Dartmouth, he found ample resources through programs like the Stamps Scholars Program, as well as supportive professors like Jason Barabas, who guided him on his research journey.

Goh’s work is particularly relevant given the polarized political climate in the U.S. today. He believes that strong, data-driven research can provide clarity in these tumultuous times. By following rigorous methodologies, researchers can present findings that speak for themselves, helping to cut through the chaos of political debates.

His time at Dartmouth has heavily influenced his research. Taking classes focused on polling and public opinion during his freshman year solidified his desire to explore these themes further. He has taken various classes on experiment design and survey analysis, enriching his understanding of these critical topics.

After graduation, Goh plans to work at Bank of America in Boston. However, he also intends to pursue law school with a focus on voting rights, an area he finds fascinating and relevant to his research. Currently, he is writing a thesis based on his initial work and preparing to publish his paper in the New England Journal of Political Science. This opportunity allows him to share his findings with a wider audience, marking an exciting step in his academic journey.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.