NextGen Service programs bring students together for exciting events on campus, across campuses, and virtually to provide networking and service-learning opportunities.

In June 2024, the Volcker Alliance partnered with the University of Pittsburgh to bring 18 students from 10 universities to Washington DC for a Public Service Career Exploration trip. The experience exposed students to a variety of public service careers, provided the students with a view into the inner workings of federal government, and facilitated networking with their peers in NextGen Service programs across the country. The students also heard from alumni working in the nation’s capital about their career trajectories, showcasing various public service pathways.

“My favorite session was learning about the US Government Accountability Office, known as the congressional watchdog. I found it incredibly fascinating to learn how the GAO conducts research to track progress and evaluate the impact of legislation,” Emily Cruz, University of Houston (‘24) noted. “I have a strong passion for research, especially when it can effectively bridge communities with their government. This session sparked an interest in exploring avenues where I can contribute to effective governance and public policy through rigorous research and analysis.”