What inspires you to work in public service?
My inspiration to work in public service is fueled by my desire to address the growing polarization in politics and refocus policymaking on the needs of constituents. I believe effective public service requires collaboration and an emphasis on outcomes rather than political ideology. My goal is to contribute to policies that strengthen communities and rebuild trust between institutions and the people they serve.
What is your major, and do you have any minors or specializations?
Major: Public Management, Leadership, and Policy; Minor: International Relations and Diplomacy; Combined Degree with MPA program
What coursework or academic experiences have most shaped your interests in policy, leadership or public service?
My writing and communications course (PUBAFRS 2367) with Professor Judith Zimomra significantly shaped my interest in public service. The course emphasized the real-world application of policy analysis by allowing the students to select their policy of interest. Through this experience, I conducted research on pedestrian safety in the university area and produced a policy memo that I shared with Columbus City Council. This work directly led to ongoing discussions with council staff regarding potential safety improvements along High Street, demonstrating how well-researched policy can translate into real change.
What specific skills or experiences do you bring to your internship?
I bring a strong foundation in policy research and strategic communication, developed through experiences in government, nonprofit, and private-sector environments. My background includes internships with a U.S. House of Representatives district office, Habitat for Humanity Mid-Ohio, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, and roles involving economic development and international business. These experiences allow me to approach policy challenges with a well-rounded and results-oriented perspective.
What strengths do you most rely on when collaborating with others?
My primary strengths in collaboration are organization and strategic planning. I have been successful at aligning teams around shared objectives and establishing clear delegation of tasks. I am currently working on developing a strong awareness of group dynamics, knowing when to lead discussions and when to step back to ensure all perspectives are heard. While it has been challenging to learn, this approach has consistently strengthened my team's outcomes.
What are your career goals and how do you hope this fellowship will support your professional journey?
I intend to pursue a career in government relations within the private sector, focusing on monitoring legislative developments and advising organizations on their response. This fellowship would deepen my understanding of policy formation, stakeholder interests, and governmental processes, while strengthening the analytical and professional skills necessary to succeed in a government relations role.
What is your favorite or most impactful project from a previous role?
During my time with the American-Central European Business Association (ACEBA), I produced bi-weekly intelligence reports on global political, economic, and electoral developments for more than 40 major U.S. companies, including Citibank, Lockheed Martin, and ExxonMobil. I identified relevant developments and monitored changes through ongoing issue tracking. This project was impactful because it sharpened my ability to analyze complex global events through the lens of diverse corporate priorities and deliver concise, decision-relevant insights.