Cyrus Beschloss

Cyrus Beschloss is the Founder and CEO of College Reaction Inc., which has since rebranded as Generation Lab, a polling organization focused on understanding the views and attitudes of young people, particularly college students. He co-founded College Reaction in 2018 while he was an undergraduate at Williams College. The organization aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of youth perspectives, countering common stereotypes and misconceptions about young voters, particularly in political contexts.14

Background and Education

Cyrus Beschloss studied History at Williams College and later earned a Master's in Data Journalism from Stanford University. His academic background informs his approach to collecting and analyzing data related to youth opinions.23

Professional Journey

Initially inspired by the disconnect between political candidates' appeals and the realities of young voters during the 2016 presidential election, Beschloss sought to create a platform that accurately reflects the views of younger demographics. Under his leadership, Generation Lab has developed a robust methodology for polling, ensuring that responses are representative of diverse student populations across various educational institutions.12

Goals and Vision

Beschloss emphasizes the importance of understanding young people's thoughts to enhance public discourse and policy-making. He aims to add "sharper texture" and "deeper definition" to youth research, making it more reflective of their actual beliefs and experiences.23 His work has included collaborations with media organizations and academic initiatives, reinforcing the relevance of Generation Lab's findings in broader societal discussions.1

In summary, Cyrus Beschloss is a key figure in youth polling, leveraging his educational background and professional experience to influence how young people's voices are represented in public discourse.