The UW Evans School’s NextGen Service Summer Policy Academy (SPA), a partnership with Volcker Alliance, provides undergraduate students across disciplines with a deeper appreciation of current issues and trends in public policy, a great understanding of career opportunities in public service fields, and enhanced knowledge and skills to support their future pursuit of careers in public policy.
This three-week program begins with a week in Washington D.C. Students attended professional development workshops, networked with government leaders and inspirational change-makers, and visited federal departments and agencies. Afterward, they headed to Seattle for two weeks at the Evans School to gain exposure to nonprofits and government agencies working on creating and implementing social policies.
Program Dates
The 2027 program ran from June 14 to July 3, 2027. Ahead of the program, participants were required to attend virtual orientations in preparation for the experience.
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March 17, 2027
Virtual Orientation
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June 14, 2027
Travel and Arive in Washington, D.C.
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June 15-20, 2027
Programming in Washington, D.C.
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June 20, 2027
Travel and arrive at the University of Washington
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June 21-July 2, 2027
On-campus study programming
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July 3, 2027
Travel Home
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Applicants must be:
- A current undergraduate junior who will be a senior in the 2027-28 academic year
- In good academic standing (i.e. “on track to graduate between autumn 2027 and spring 2028)
- U.S. Citizen and/or lawful permanent resident
Strong applicants will convey an authentic interest in learning more about public service career opportunities and developing change-making skills through their resume and responses to essay prompts. This program is open to all eligible students, with the goal of increased participation of applicants from historically marginalized backgrounds, Pell Grant recipients, and first-generation college students.
Students will be awarded a $1,000 stipend; all expenses, including travel, lodging, and meals, are fully covered by the program.
Application Materials
Student Information
Legal name, birth date, contact details, etc.
Resume
As a PDF
Current Undergraduate Transcript
As a PDF. Unofficial transcripts are accessible.
Two 500-word Essay Responses
- Why are you interested in participating in the NextGen Service Summer Policy Academy? What are you hoping to learn or gain by participating?
- Life experiences shape who we are, and the way we perceive the world around us. Please share with us how your personal journey has influenced your career aspirations.
Letter of Recommendation
From an academic or professional reference. Must be submitted directly by the recommender. Submission link is included in the application.