One way John F. Kennedy changed American politics was through his legislation on civil rights. During the social revolutions taking place during the 1960s, John F. Kennedy did not resist the youth movement. Rather, he recognized the new ways of thinking that characterized youth culture in America. Young people became more enthusiastic about politics as a result of Kennedy's influence. Because Kennedy was relatively young compared with his colleagues, American youth could relate to him in ways they could not to his political opponents. The 1960 election earned Kennedy the office of president against his opponent Richard Nixon. Even though Nixon would go on to become President, Kennedy would have already proven himself a worthy leader and a champion of civil liberties.

Unfortunately Kennedy became embroiled in a fiasco of international conflict. The Bay of Pigs invasion and other clashes with Communism created political scandals even the charming Kennedy could not completely overcome. The Cold War defined the Kennedy administration, but did not sully the President's reputation as a solid leader. In fact, the way Kennedy handled the Bay of Pigs was criticized unduly. The President only reacted to common concerns that Communism was an immanent threat to the ideals of freedom, liberty and democracy. The involvement in the Vietnam War would become a continuation of an interventionist foreign policy that Kennedy supported only because it was considered the judicious approach to creating a better world after the Second World War. When Kennedy was assassinated, his Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson pursued a more aggressive strategy in the Far East than even Kennedy advocated. Kennedy remained a champion of American ideals: of labor union rights, of civil liberties, and social service.

As an applicant to University I not only seek to emulate President Kennedy but to surpass his political ideals by giving back to my community. Kennedy's interest in uplifting the downtrodden has inspired me. Whether or not his death was an accident, I intend to carry on his legacy as president by advocating the rights of the poor and of the working class. Kennedy knew first hand the scourge of prejudice. As a Catholic, Kennedy fought against deeply rooted biases that still linger in the 21st century. As a political leader in whatever capacity I can serve, I will also remain strong in the face of opposition like John F. Kennedy. Using his life as an example, I will give back to my community and to all other disenfranchised communities when I am entrusted with the ability and political power to do so. The University will offer the resources and networking opportunities to allow me and my schoolmates to achieve true social justice in the Kennedy tradition. Thank you for your consideration.