If you are thinking about getting into politics, than I have a couple of suggestions for starting points.

Obviously, the first thing you need to do if you haven't already (and most college students haven't) is get an internship or two with a politician who is working at a level you would like to work at. This is your chance to show them what you know, and see things from the inside...basically an extended job interview. These days, it's not terribly easy to get higher level internships, so the basic rule of thumb my advisor used was: if you want an internship, send out at least 100 applications. Otherwise, you'd be chancing it. I would suggest the state legislature or in-state congressional offices as great places to start. Plus, with it being campaign season, there will be a good deal of opportunities out there. Make sure to write good cover letters explaining your situation and why you would like to work with that person.

Second, try finding a job with an outside firm that deals in politics. Lobbying firms, polling firms, media outlets, advocacy groups, and my personal favorite, fundraisers. Probably the easiest job to secure right now is a fundraising job with, say, The FUND, Clean Water Action, CAMN, one of the PIRG's, Grassroots Campaigns, or many other smaller dirrect marketing agencies. This is a tough, and not extremely high paying route to take (if your thinking you need to drive a Lexus, have designer clothes, and hit the clubs every night, this probably not up your ally) but is one that will have you dealing with the issues, and a broad cross-section of the public doing campaign work. It's also where many elected officials get their start. In one year, you will be ready to run for office yourself...if you're smart enough.

Third. Write articles or opinion pieces. Send letters to the editor. Have a section of your resume that lists your writing accomplishments, and it will stand out with many prospective employers. This shows that you have strong writing skills and know enough about issues and process to be an asset.

Fourth. Find people who will be valuable to your advancement, and kiss butt like mad. It's not for me, but let's face it, 95% percent of really successful people get where they are because of connections and people skills.

Fifth. Forget about volunterring (other than an internship). The caliber of the average volunteer is usually ridiculous. Generally, they don't have a clue, and the paid volunteer coordinator sees them as someone who is dumb enough to work for free, when they could be making money. And, volunteer work is usually nothing more than making calls and stuffing envelopes.

Sixth, and finally... Go to law school. Cause, frankly, a PoliSci degree with no post-grad is not terribly impressive. Take it from me. I've done lots of hiring, and I'm the holder of a BA in History and Political Science.

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Any man who can render himself unconscious with a pretzel isn't smart enough to lead the free world.