Public Service Weekends

Public Service Weekends

Apply to attend one of our Public Service Weekends. PSWs are three-day programs that introduce college students and recent post-grads to the wide range of opportunities in public service. In 2024, Public Service Weekends will be hosted by nine of our university partners.


About the Program

These three-day programs bring students together to learn about the wide and diverse field of policy opportunities available to them. PSWs are catered to university students at all levels who are interested in pursuing a career in public policy.


Each conference has its own application process that is released on a rolling basis as PSW dates are confirmed. Admitted students may receive financial assistance for travel, accommodations, and food.


Students of all university levels, as well as recent graduates, are encouraged to apply.

Skill

Development

Networking

Opportunities

Funding for Accommodations

Make Connections

Find New Opportunities

Public Service Weekends introduce students to a wide variety of professions and sectors in a concise three-day conference format. During this time, students will hear from panels of policy professionals, participate in networking opportunities, and more!


PSWs ensure students walk away with an expanded policy knowledge base, and relationships with like-minded peers and potential employers. Students also learn and practice practical skills that enhance their leadership potential.

2024 Public Service Weekend Dates

APPLY BY APRIL 15

George Washington University:

Elliott and Trachtenberg Schools

June 27-30, 2024

APPLY BY MAY 15 APPLY BY JUNE 20

University of Texas at Austin:

LBJ School of Public Affairs

July 18-21, 2024

APPLY BY APRIL 29

University of California, Los Angeles:

 Luskin School

August 30-September 1, 2024

APPLY BY JUNE 30

University at Albany, SUNY:

Rockefeller College

September 20-22, 2024

Applications open end of June


University of California, Riverside:

School of Public Policy

October 4-6, 2024

Applications open May 1st


University of California, San Diego:

School of Global Policy and Strategy

November 1-3, 2024

APPLY BY JULY 1ST

George Mason University: Schar School

February 21-23, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who may apply for a PSW?

    Undergraduate students at every level and recent graduates are encouraged to apply for all PSWs.

  • I am not part of a historically underrepresented community. Does that make me ineligible or otherwise affect my application?

    All individuals are welcome to apply. If you can demonstrate involvement with diverse communities or convey how your cross-cultural experiences enable you to contribute to PPIA’s goal of building a diverse and more representative generation of leaders then your application will tend to be considered more favorably.

  • Economic need is listed as part of the eligibility to apply. Are individuals from higher incomes eligible?

    All other factors being equal, a student from an economically disadvantaged background will receive extra consideration. However, students are not disqualified based on wealth and there is typically some degree of socioeconomic diversity among PPIA Fellows.

  • What can I do to make my application stand out?

    PPIA is interested in knowing your aspirations in public service, how your background informs your goals, and how a specific JSI site may help facilitate said goals. Try to capture these narratives in your resume and especially in your personal statements! 

  • If I am accepted, will I have to pay anything?

    No, most PSW host sites will help you pay for travel expenses, cover the cost of the conference, and provide housing and meals.

Share by: