The tenth cohort of DC Concentration students from Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin will celebrate their graduation on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
The students, part of the largest cohort to date, entered graduate school in August 2024, spending their first year in Austin completing their rigorous core curriculum and elective courses before moving to Washington, DC in June 2025. While in the nation's capitol, students completed their studies in the evening with coursework focused on federal policy and procedures while undertaking a 6-month Policy Apprenticeship at organizations around town during the day, giving them real world, practical experience.
The new policy graduates shared heartfelt reflections on their journeys, thanking their supportive community and recognizing how their impactful policy work and diverse experiences will guide their futures in public service.
Here's what these change-makers had to say:
Veronica Alcantar, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeships: Partnership for Public Service and United Nations Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED)
"My time as a student in the DC Concentration has been nothing short of a transformative, wonderful experience. Since moving back to Washington in June, I've pursued two different Policy Apprenticeships, my first being at the Partnership for Public Service as a Government Affairs Fellow. There, I researched federal and state-level labor policy, tracked relevant legislation, and even sat in on a Congressional hearing (accidentally sitting right behind the center witness and being on camera almost the entire time). In August, I transitioned to the United Nations Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) as a Political Affairs Intern. This role allowed me to gain invaluable experience at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, attending events for the 80th annual UN General Assembly, Security Council meetings, and conducting research to help publish a public report on ‘Physical Protection of Critical Infrastructure Against Terrorist Attacks’ in collaboration with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
Overall, the DC Concentration has given me the chance to pursue opportunities I otherwise never would have had the ability to, providing me with the necessary knowledge, financial aid, and team support to start my career as a policy professional. Gaining experience in Washington, DC and New York City while completing my degree has widened my possibilities for future employment and made me a stronger candidate in a competitive field. In the DC Concentration, I’ve also had the ability to learn more about international affairs through my coursework on African policy issues and my time at the UN. This has caused me to look into roles in policy environments both at home and abroad. All in all, my time at the LBJ School has been nothing short of incredible. Some of my favorite memories include attending the Congressional baseball game (even though my team lost!) and traveling to Rehoboth beach in Delaware with friends."
Abdullah Alsawfta, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
"My time at the LBJ School has been impactful both academically and professionally. I came into the program wanting to deepen my understanding of public policy, and the LBJ School gave me the tools necessary to do that. This journey began in Austin, Texas, where I learned the importance of communication, impact evaluation, public financial management, and congressional policymaking, which created a strong foundation.
The DC Concentration built directly on that foundation. Living, working, and attending classes in Washington, DC, gave me first-hand experience with the federal government and solidified my goal in pursuing a career in national security and justice. Being surrounded by experts, mentors, and a great cohort made the experience both valuable and personally meaningful. My commitment to public service is stronger than ever, and I’m grateful for what the LBJ School and the DC Concentration have given me as I take the next step in my career."
Yu Ting Chen, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeships: American Enterprise Institute (AEI) and Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative, Center for Strategic & International Studies
"During my time at the LBJ School, I found that the program gave me both the analytical training and the professional exposure I needed to clarify my long-term interests. The coursework, especially in China and foreign policy, gave me a strong methodological foundation, while the various seminar discussions allowed me to apply these tools to real-world regional security issues.
The DC Concentration has been one of the most valuable components of my experience. Spending two semesters in Washington allowed me to observe how think tanks operate on a daily basis, from coordinating research agendas to drafting policy-relevant analysis under tight timelines. Through my internship, I had the opportunity to publish two articles, including pieces with ‘The Diplomat’ and ‘CSIS Blog’, which helped me understand how expert commentary can shape policy conversations."
Omar Gamboa, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: Congressional Hispanic Caucus
“Within two years, I went from the public school classroom to the halls where policies are made. Through the LBJ School DC Concentration, I accomplished so much in education policy within the Texas Legislature AND had the privilege of supporting the Congressional Hispanic Caucus during my months in Washington, DC. Through the CHC, I met the most inspirational people, was at the epicenter of major events, and promoted the best legislation of our 43 member offices. As you may know, these months have been some of the most consequential for the Latino community. Between the CHC’s responses to the assault against Senator Padilla on my first day to the courts preventing IRS-ICE data sharing just last week, I’m proud of the part I played in efforts to preserve the dignity of my people and safeguard our democracy. The network I built along the way—incredible mentors in the CHC, LBJ alumni, and peers passionate about public service—is invaluable. I will forever aim to support the success of public education, and I’m thankful for the lessons learned from capital to capital on how to advance policies for historically underserved communities.”
Sarah Gawron, MGPS-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: U.S. Representative William R. Keating (D-MA)
"The DC Concentration has been the defining chapter of my LBJ experience and my academic career. Working in Congressman Bill Keating’s office showed me how global challenges are translated into the daily work of a congressional team, and how it translates to the American people. I gained invaluable experience that will carry me into my next adventure, from contributing to research, supporting foreign policy objectives, and helping to shepherd policy ideas through public briefings, hearings, and the behind-the-scenes conversations that drive change. That hands-on exposure clarified the mechanics of policymaking and reaffirmed the kind of work that energizes me: bridging global issues with practical, policy-driven solutions.
This program has deepened my long-standing commitment to public service and my desire to build a career contributing directly and thoughtfully to our policymaking process. Being in DC with a cohort that supported and challenged one another made the experience even more meaningful. I entered the program with only a vague sense of my future career, and I am leaving the program with clear direction, a deep gratitude for the relationships I have built, and a renewed commitment to a career in global policy and international development."
Mara Luz Gomez, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
"My time in the LBJ school was memorable. I had the privilege to learn with and from peers with a variety of interests and backgrounds. The courses strengthened my written communication and research skills and encouraged collaborative working environments. I was drawn to this program because I would learn how the federal government and politics impact investment in transportation and infrastructure.
My focus going into this program was to work in transportation equity and environmental justice, specifically in Texas. However, the exposure to the coursework and federal policy landscape opened my mind to the prospect of staying in Washington, DC post-graduation. As a result, my current goal is to find a job on the Hill to reinforce the knowledge I gained in my DC courses, or a transportation-focused trade association or nonprofit to expand my knowledge of federal advocacy."
Audrey Harris, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeships: The John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress and U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX)
"Through the DC Concentration, my time at the LBJ School was split between Austin and DC, which gave me a better sense of what day-to-day political work actually looks like. Austin was where I got comfortable with writing, learning new subjects quickly, and managing a lot at once, and DC was where I had to use those skills in real time. My time in the program also made it clearer what kind of work I want to do after graduation. I’m more interested in state and local policy work or campaigns because the impact feels more direct and the pace fits how I work. The projects I worked on this year, showed me that I do well in settings where things move quickly and where the work isn’t getting stuck for months. LBJ helped me get a better sense of the kind of work I want to do, the pace I prefer, and where I think I can contribute the most."
Megan Hart, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform (Democratic Staff)
"I came to the LBJ School hoping to fill the knowledge gaps that I felt in my first job, and I left with far more than I expected. In Austin, classes like policy communications, reproductive health, and public financial management were all taught by practitioners who brought real-world expertise into class discussion. Their approach grounded our learning in what we would actually need to do on the job, and it made me feel very prepared for DC.
The DC Concentration gave me the chance to return to Washington and re-enter the policy world while finishing my degree on an accelerated timeline, something no other program offers. Through LBJ connections, I had the opportunity to work for the House Oversight Committee Democrats for my Policy Apprenticeship. This role allowed me to participate in some of the most important oversight investigations in Congress, at a time where oversight felt especially important. I wrote letters to federal agencies, met with members of Congress, and was actively involved in the exciting day-to-day environment on Capitol Hill. The skills I gained and the experiences I had during my Policy Apprenticeship were things I could have never gotten in a classroom. After graduation, I am eager to stay on with the Committee full time as a research assistant and continue doing this rewarding work.
Along the way, I’ve learned just as much from my peers as I did in the classroom. My DC cohort has taught me how to be a better collaborator, listener, and friend. I’m happy to say I am leaving LBJ with a clearer sense of purpose, a stronger network, and the confidence to tackle the policy challenges ahead."
Raj Kishore, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeships: U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee and Cato Institute
"My LBJ experience has been transformative, both intellectually and professionally. Coming from the Indian Revenue Service, I entered the Master of Public Affairs DC program with experience in tax administration but a clear desire to build a stronger analytical foundation. Courses in public finance, empirical methods, and policy communication sharpened my ability to translate complex fiscal issues into actionable insights. Working closely with faculty like Dr. Martin Luby, Dr. Raissa Fabregas, Professor Amy Leff, and Professor Dirk Mateer helped me see how rigorous research and thoughtful teaching strengthen public institutions. Serving as a Teaching Assistant for UGS 303: Economics and Ethics was one of the most rewarding parts of my time in Austin.
The DC Concentration has been the most valuable part of my LBJ journey. Through my Policy Apprenticeship at the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee and my Fall internship with the Cato Institute’s Tax and Budget team, I gained firsthand exposure to federal policymaking, budget debates, and the intersection of research and politics. These experiences solidified my interest in tax policy, fiscal governance, and evidence-based reform. Most importantly, LBJ transformed me. The program turned my professional experience into research questions, sharpened my analytical instincts, and helped me see myself as a researcher.
I am proud of the work I have undertaken during my apprenticeships and coursework, from building large empirical datasets on tax buoyancy and digitization to producing memos on federal programs, Social Security reform, and tax administration. The DC experience, peer support, and mentorship at LBJ have broadened my perspective and strengthened my long-term aspiration to serve in roles that bridge research and policymaking, whether in federal agencies, international financial institutions, or academia. Most importantly, the LBJ community helped me rediscover the purpose that brought me here, improving public finance systems so they serve people more effectively and fairly.”
Minh Ly, MGPS-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: Partnership for Public Service
“The DC Concentration was truly a life-altering experience that has allowed me to expand my career and skills far beyond my expectations. As a young professional, the ability to live, work and network as part of the DC ecosystem was invaluable for advancing in my career. When I came to DC, I was frankly terrified. This was my first time living alone, far from family and away from any connections from Texas. However, through the expansive network of speakers and educators, I was able to thrive in DC as a professional and a student. I made lifelong friends in DC and at LBJ, some of the brightest minds of our generation who have inspired me with their passion. Because of the people I've met along the way and the work I've done to advance good governance at the Partnership for Public Service, I hope to have a career in public service and create a real impact in the world.”
Nitish Mirchandani, MGPS-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: The Chamberlain Network and U.S. Department of Defense
“I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of the LBJ community. I applied to the program on a whim but in retrospect, I'm glad I did. I made friends who I cannot imagine my life without, I met professors I would never have met anywhere else, and I got work experience that has been invaluable to my personal growth. The DC Concentration has been fantastic, especially since I have been trying to make my way to DC for five years now. The fact that the program guarantees students an opportunity to live, work, and graduate in our nation's capital is the biggest reason I enrolled in it. My time in the DC cohort has both solidified and expanded my policy interests. I remain committed to working on foreign affairs through Indo-Pacific policy, and US-South Asia ties. However, the program also helped me cultivate a deep appreciation for sound domestic policymaking. Programs like Medicaid and Pell Grants which were a big part of my life story have taken on a new meaning. I have a renewed gratitude for their existence and would like to explore healthcare and education financing policies further. The projects I have worked on have added a new set of skills and expertise to my repertoire. In class I conducted research on AI in India's agricultural and cybersecurity arena, an analysis of Indian special operations in cross-border terrorism, and a comprehensive look at post-conflict politics in Eastern Africa. In my policy apprenticeships, I got to work with the Chamberlain Network on tracking the politicization of the US military, and engaging veterans in the democratic process. My work at the Department of Defense has included developing reports for policymakers on US policy in the Middle East and South Asia, as well as bridging the info vs. intel divide in maritime data sharing. In both my apprenticeships, I've come away with concrete projects on which I am proud to have worked. Through it all, I am grateful for everything I have experienced, but mainly the fact that I have a winning football team. Hook 'Em and Prove Them Wong.”
Serin Mubarak, MGPS-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: Partnership for Public Service
"My time at the LBJ School has been one of the most transformative experiences of my academic life. Coming in with a background in diplomacy and international trade, I was eager to expand my understanding of how policy gets made. The coursework pushed me to think critically about the institutions, incentives, and political dynamics shaping U.S. governance, while giving me the analytical tools to navigate complex policy landscapes.
The DC Concentration has been especially meaningful. Being immersed in Washington, DC allowed me to see the policymaking process up close and apply what I learned in real time. Looking ahead, I hope to build a career in the tech-policy space that bridges technical insights with policymaking, helping translate complex issues into clear, actionable solutions. My LBJ experience solidified that I thrive in environments where I can bridge technical and policy expertise to help institutions adapt to emerging challenges. I’m grateful for my cohort, the mentors who encouraged me, and the hands-on opportunities that helped me grow personally and professionally."
Sofia Odom, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform (Democratic Staff)
“My time as an LBJ-DC fellow has been invaluable. I had the fortune of working as a fellow with the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform's Democratic staff, and I could not have secured this fellowship without the help of staff at the LBJ Washington Center. The Oversight Committee gave me countless opportunities to grow professionally, and I was able to be a part of historical investigations that are sure to shape our country's political landscape. Prior to my fellowship, I had never had the chance to intern on the Hill, and I had never known anyone who had. The LBJ School gave me the opportunity to work on teams I never thought I could be a part of. Our network is expansive—using my time in Washington to meet as many people as possible has been a tremendous add to my professional trajectory.”
Mia Paone, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: U.S. House Committee on Financial Services (Democratic Staff)
"I was drawn to the LBJ School and the DC Concentration because it offered exactly what I was looking for: one final year in Austin, the city I had called home for four years of undergrad, and then a seamless transition into living and working in Washington, DC. I came in unsure of which policy areas I wanted to pursue, but LBJ’s mix of rigorous coursework, practical skill-building, and a strong sense of community gave me the space to explore widely and then hone in on my policy interests of banking, tax, and federal budget policy. That year in Austin gave me such a strong foundation of skills both in and out of the classroom. From day one, LBJ felt like a place where people showed up not just for classes, but for each other, and that sense of belonging shaped my entire experience.
The immersive DC year brought those classroom lessons to life. I loved coming to class after work and hearing my cohort connect their day-to-day fellowship experiences to what we were covering in the classroom. Our professors’ real-world expertise, combined with the guest speakers they brought in, helped deepen my understanding of policymaking across sectors. Outside the classroom, being in DC opened the door to countless opportunities to grow professionally.
My Policy Apprenticeship with the House Financial Services Committee ultimately solidified my interest in building a career on Capitol Hill. As a fellow, I drafted statements, press releases, and social media copy; helped prepare messaging ahead of hearings and markups; and got to learn about a wide range of issues—from affordable housing to digital assets to monetary policy. I learned something new every single day and found new policy areas that I'm interested in continuing to work on. It was an incredible experience to contribute to the work Ranking Member Waters and the Committee are doing for people across the country.
As I graduate, I’m excited to stay in DC and pursue a full-time role on the Hill. LBJ has given me the skills, network, and confidence to take this next step, and I’m deeply grateful to the amazing DC cohort, Robin, Bill, and the whole LBJ community for making the past 16 months so impactful."
Benjamin Taulli, MGPS-DC
Policy Apprenticeships: Venn Strategies and Converge Strategies LLC
“When I left the Air Force, I was looking for a way to turn my passion and curiosity around climate action into a career. After weighing a lot of options, I decided that the LBJ School was the best forum and focusing mechanism to help me do this. During my time in Austin, I was fortunate enough to meet and work for Dr. Joshua Busby. Partially funded by a Department of Defense grant, we examined the policy implications of the U.S. critical mineral supply chain. Studying the minerals and rare materials that underpin the clean energy transition was my first academic foray into the contemporary climate movement. Our work together culminated in the publication of a piece for the Council on Strategic Risks called, ‘The Devil is in the Details: Minerals, Batteries, and US. Dependence on Chinese Imports’. In Austin I also had the great fortune of taking the first class taught by Doug Lewin. This foundational class gave me an understanding of the regulatory structures that underpin the U.S. energy market and renewable energy landscape. More importantly, it gave me the vocabulary and knowledge base to identify the career I wanted to work in. Heading to DC with a much deeper understanding of how to actualize my career goals, I was able to focus on applying what I had learned in Austin to real policy analysis and intervention. I have too many DC mentors to thank here, but countless coffee chats and professional calls by people who graciously gave me their time and expertise, continued to steer my professional development in ways I’ll be forever thankful for. After the course of three DC based policy internships (one of which was cancelled before it began), and a chance encounter at an environment and energy conference, I found exactly the type of employer I was looking for. Converge Strategies, a small consulting firm that works at the intersection of climate, energy resilience, and national security, checked all my boxes for an organization that was action oriented and aligned with vison of a secure energy transition. I’m extremely grateful to have come on full time this September and can’t wait to see where the journey takes me.”
Victor To, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeship: House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform (Democratic Staff)
"The DC Concentration prepared me to step confidently into the halls of Congress. The night courses equipped me with tools I could apply immediately throughout my apprenticeship — not to mention fostering lifelong friendships with my classmates.
This program embodies LBJ’s vision of a Great Society built on public servants: empathetic, compassionate, and dedicated to helping our country realize its promises of liberty and justice for all."
Madison Wallace, MPAff-DC
Policy Apprenticeships: Reproductive Freedom for All and United Nations Information Center
"I came to LBJ after working on Capitol Hill for two years. I loved my job, but as a scheduler I felt like I was working around people who handled policy rather than engaging in it myself. After meeting Jalaina Douglas, a coworker and now friend who graduated from the LBJ DC Concentration, I was hooked and applied right away. A year in Austin and six months in DC sounded perfect to me, and I was thrilled to be accepted. During my time in the program, I focused on education policy, turning any Austin coursework I could into a chance to research topics like the effects and implementation of vouchers in Texas public schools, teacher retention rates across the country, and how different states fund special education.
LBJ gave me the chance to learn from incredible faculty like Professor Amy Leff and Dr. Abigail Aiken, and it also gave me lifelong friends. The DC portion of the program was a welcome challenge, and I was excited to return to the city where I spent my first few years after graduating from Angelo State University.
My summer Policy Apprenticeship was with Reproductive Freedom for All, a national nonprofit fighting for access to abortion, birth control, paid parental leave, and other essential protections. Since September I have been a Public Information Intern at the United Nations Information Center (UNIC) here in DC. Both placements were outside my usual policy lane, but each pushed me in meaningful ways. I loved learning about the global policy space and getting to use my social media and communication skills through a policy lens.
My Policy Apprenticeships were deeply rewarding, and the friends I made in and beyond the DC cohort were an unexpected gift. I am excited to return to Texas and continue building a career in nonprofit work, and I look forward to bringing everything I learned at LBJ into the next chapter of my life."