Next Generation Service Corps Summer Policy Academy
Next Generation Service Corps Summer Policy Academy
The NextGen Service Summer Policy Academy (SPA) is a fully funded three-week program and professional development experience for NextGen Service students interested in exploring impactful public service careers.
Selected students will...
Complete a two-week residential study program (June 23 - July 3)
Students will travel from Washington, DC to one of three participating “Host Schools” where they will engage in dynamic curriculum inside and outside the classroom, explore the local area, and connect with NextGen Service peers from across the country. Each Host School will offer programming organized around a unique policy topic:
Berkeley, CA: University of California, Berkeley, The Goldman School of Public Policy
Democracy and Law Policy - Students will explore the conditions for democracy and the actions governments can take to protect, promote, and deliver on the promise of democracy for human flourishing. Specific areas of democracy policy include issues of representation and identity justice, voting and elections, speech and expression, citizenship, effective governance and administration, and institutional trust.
Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota, Humphrey School of Public Affairs
Global Policy - With an emphasis on roleplay and simulation, students will take a hands-on approach to grappling with some of the world’s most pressing transnational challenges. Specific focus areas may include conflict, access to water, human rights, and sustainable development.
Seattle, WA: University of Washington, Evans School of Public Policy and Governance
Social Policy - Students will be exposed to an array of nonprofit and government agencies involved in the creation and implementation of social policies that respond to pressing societal and economic issues. Specific issues of social policy include addressing poverty and inequality, social welfare programs, education policy, and criminal justice.
Receive a $1,000 stipend
Students will be awarded a $1,000 stipend; all expenses, including travel, lodging, and meals, are fully covered by the program.
How to Apply
To be considered for this opportunity, students should complete the online application at the link below. NextGen Service students entering their senior year in Fall 2025 from all academic disciplines are eligible to apply. The application deadline is February 7, 2025 at 11:59 pm PT.
Register here for the informational webinar on January 15, 2025, at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT.
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply?
To be eligible, applicants must be:
- An undergraduate student who will be a senior in the 2025-26 academic year.
- Enrolled in a NextGen Service program (verified by program staff) OR enrolled at one of the following NextGen Service member schools: Albany State University, Baruch College, Clark Atlanta University, Fisk University, Georgia State University, Jackson State University, Rutgers University-Newark, and South Dakota State University; and
- In good academic standing (i.e., “on track” to graduate in 2026).
What criteria will be considered in selecting participants?
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. The selection process will also consider applicants’ undergraduate university affiliation to ensure wide representation from NextGen Service schools.
Preference will be given to applicants from historically marginalized backgrounds, Pell Grant recipients, and first-generation college students.
How do I apply?
To be considered for this opportunity students should complete the online application. The deadline to apply is February 7, 2025 at 11:59pm PT.
What are the dates of the program?
The program will run from June 16, 2025 to July 3, 2025. The preliminary schedule includes the following key dates:
June 15: Travel and arrive in DC
June 16-21: Programming in DC
June 22: Travel and arrive at Host School
June 23-July 2: Host School programming
July 3: Travel home
What documents will I need to fill out the application?
Applicants will need to upload a copy of their transcripts (unofficial ones are acceptable) and a resume. There is an optional letter of recommendation component.
How much will the program cost?
The program is free for participating students and includes travel expenses to and from Washington, DC and home from the Host Campus, as well as food and lodging at the Host Campus. Students should expect very minimal out-of-pocket expenses.
Will I be compensated for my participation?
In addition to travel, lodging, and meal expenses being covered by the program, students will also be awarded a $1,000 stipend.
What will happen during the week in Washington, DC?
Programming in Washington, DC will include:
- Site visits to federal government departments and agencies;
- Networking and mentorship opportunities with public servants in local, state, and federal government;
- Professional skill development (e.g., crafting your elevator pitch, resume/cover letter writing, mock interviews, public speaking, etc.);
- Constructive dialogue and negotiation skills; and
- Leadership reflection and training.
What happens during the residential study portion of the experience?
Each campus will engage students in a curriculum that emphasizes public policy skill-building and collaborative problem-solving. Students will be able to engage in experiential learning and networking opportunities beyond the classroom setting.
Will each Host School offer the same programming?
The skills and curricular opportunities at each Host School will have common elements, but each will offer unique experiences organized around different policy lenses.
How will I be placed at my Host School?
You will be required to rank each school based on your preference in the application. While we cannot promise you will be placed at your first-choice school, we will take your rankings and interests expressed in your application into consideration.
Who should I contact if I have more questions about the program?
Register here for the informational webinar on January 15, 2025, at 8pm ET/5 pm PT to learn more. If you have additional questions or need to report any technical difficulties in completing the application, please contact nextgen@volckeralliance.org .