Political science professor Scott McLean believes in a hands-on approach to learning. That's why he led 14 undergraduates from his honors seminar on presidential campaigns to Manchester, N.H., to participate in the primary campaigns.

"Most courses on politics do not involve actual involvement in the process," explained McLean. "I want my students to experience presidential campaigns from the grassroots level," he said.

At the beginning of the semester, each student chose a presidential candidate to support. Much of their class time was spent debating hot campaign issues. The class traveled to New Hampshire twice during the semester and then returned for six days during winter break just before the primaries. Students made phone calls, knocked on doors and attended rallies and town meetings for their candidates.

Senior Jenielle Alonso, who supports Rudolph Giuliani, said she enjoyed working alongside the campaign staff. "They appreciate our efforts. We really feel like we're making a difference," she said. Alonso, who is pursuing a double major in political science and history, said the time spent campaigning helped her learn "how to interact with people of a different political persuasion."

Classmate Kailey Maher, a Mitt Romney supporter, said there was a sense of camaraderie in class, but also a "healthy competitiveness" among students supporting different candidates. "Everyone is in the process to learn. It's great to see how far we've come this semester," she added.

Sophomore Mark Bouchard, a political science major and Hillary Clinton supporter, agreed. He said he has become close with fellow Clinton volunteers in the class and that they helped each other stay motivated.

Bouchard, who serves as vice president of the Quinnipiac University Democrats, said he enjoyed practicing what he learned in class. "People are really nice. They're willing to open their doors. I find that people react better to a face, so I like that better than making calls," he said.

McLean said the final trip to New Hampshire before the primary was especially valuable for students. "They saw how the campaigns pick up the pace and the intensity beyond anything they had ever experienced."