By: Brian Kum
As someone who was always interested in politics but didn’t come from a Political Science background, I found the NextGen Summer Policy Academy (SPA) program very eye-opening. Overall, I would describe the program as a “ceiling-raiser”. Through exposure to so many unknown pathways and career possibilities, the idea I had in my head of how far I could aim professionally was heightened significantly. Many of the pathways are ones that I would have thought were above me or not up to my ability, but meeting with the people who ran those programs face to face was a demystifying experience, and that has already had an effect on me. I’ve been more aggressive in leaping towards opportunities that I wouldn’t have previously considered, and I’ve adopted more of a “why not me?” attitude when it comes to workload or opportunity. I’m volunteering for a community development organization in Duluth for the first time, which does work in my field of urban planning. I’m also taking some econometrics classes this year, which I may not have done if not for the ceiling-raising that took place during those three weeks. Professional development and networking were very important, but the perspective and attitude change that happened was perhaps more important for my long-term trajectory.
As for professional development and networking in particular, the program was excellent. I would especially recommend it to students who don’t necessarily come from a political science background, but who are interested in public service (though the program is still very helpful for people with a political science background). I was exposed to multiple career paths and organizations, and I was able to take away information about four organizations that I may want to work with post-grad. I also learned useful information about the skills and characteristics employers are looking for today, which was especially helpful in an environment where the hiring process is so opaque. What I learned at SPA has already caused me to change up my learning schedule for my senior year: I plan on taking economics courses and learning skills in statistical software. Both additions are due to the learning I did in SPA about the skills employers found useful.
Lastly, I have to say that the connections and friendships I made were some of the deepest connections I’ve ever felt. I wish the program was a little longer because of that. I feel confident that the friendships I formed will last a long time; I’m still in contact with some folks I met on the trip. The travel experience was notable and a once-in-a-lifetime experience; program leaders made both Seattle and DC fun.
Overall, the program is serving me well so far, and I’m very glad I took it. I’m uncertain as to where I’ll be by this point next year, but I’m sure that if I’m in a successful place, SPA will have had some hand in it.