Major: Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE)
Profession: Public policy researcher
Hometown: Concord, CA
What are you doing now?
I live in San Francisco and work as a research associate at the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC), a think tank focused on informing and improving policies across the state. I work in PPIC’s Economic Policy Center with a dedicated team of researchers focused on expanding economic opportunities for Californians.
How did you get there?
I was fortunate to benefit from my interdisciplinary major at Pomona and learn from professors and peers about a range of interrelated political, social and economic issues. This provided me with the foundation necessary to pursue a career focused on mitigating socioeconomic inequality.
In my first job, I gained valuable experience evaluating international development programs in places like Nigeria and Afghanistan. I developed a passion for using data and evidence to inform more effective government programs, which led me to pursue graduate studies in public policy. In grad school, I learned how to better design, implement and ultimately evaluate social and economic policies.
These experiences culminated in me returning to California to research state and local policies in my home state.
How did Pomona prepare you?
My education at Pomona equipped me with the critical perspective necessary to question systems and structures of power. I learned how to draw from multiple disciplines to better understand complex policy issues—a skill I’ve relied on in my graduate studies and jobs since.
The opportunity to study abroad in Rwanda in a program focused on post-genocide peacebuilding and development also provided me with countless life lessons. It showed me the immense harm that can be done when we stop resisting oppressive institutions, but also the hope that can be inspired by everyday actions to uplift fellow community members.
Lastly, the close relationships that I built at Pomona in the dorms, football and 5C clubs gave me lifelong friends who have supported me regardless of what career path I’ve taken. Being around so many caring, collaborative and curious people pushed me to challenge myself while knowing I could still rely on others for support.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I hope to be living in the Bay Area surrounded by friends and family, continuing to work with people who want to create a more equitable and just society.
Any advice for current or prospective students?
Enjoy this time you have living with your friends in a vibrant and diverse community. The relationships you make and memories you share with your hallmates, classmates, teammates and beyond are what stick with you most when it’s all said and done.
Explore your passions and try new things. You never know what class or club or internship will spark a new interest or be the place where you make a new friend. Don’t be afraid to chart your own course even if you have to break the mold to do it.
Take advantage of the resources that come with a small liberal arts school—office hours, mentoring sessions, affinity groups, sports, study abroad and more. Of course, keep an eye out for what you want to pursue in the future, but do your best to live in the moment too because the years can go by fast.