Hello everyone, my name is Courtney Navarro and I am a fourth year Political Science and Public Administration Double Dawg with a minor in Law, Jurisprudence and the state, with two certificates in Global Studies and Legal Disparities and Equity. When encountering the dreaded question of: “What do you want to be when you grow up?,” I, like many people, often have no answer. However, throughout my college career, and working so many jobs, SPIA has granted me the opportunity to branch out in ways I never thought possible, and I would like to introduce you to some of them.
Over this past summer, I was able to intern with two District Attorneys at the same time, both in the Mountain Judicial Circuit. The way how this program was structured allowed me to better understand the inner workings of prosecution and defense and I had interned there with another student from the University of Georgia. We both were offered hands-on experience with writing case summaries, drafting accusations which could be used in a court of law, and doing legal research. This internship not only allowed me to look at a future career venture I never considered, but also allowed me to meet so many new people that are willing to push me to do my very best!
Many people think that having a career with a SPIA degree means working in a courtroom or in a government office, however, some opportunities go way beyond these jobs. For example, a SPIA degree can be a great way to enter the realm of political (or non-political) communications. I recently accepted a job offer as a Public Relations Assistant at an interior design company, because of my familiarity in illustrating and producing graphics in Georgia Political Review and the Frye Fellowship Program. These skills were integral for our recent holiday magazine, in which I talked about gift giving around the world (and my background in international relations helped here as well!).
Another is within the realm of teaching, to which I have used my Honors Teaching Assistant skills to my advantage, and give my students a sneak peek into what a SPIA classroom looks like. This way, they can branch out, and take classes that truly interest them and can always be useful to their major. Teaching is an artform that SPIA students are naturally gifted in, and if you are unsure of a career path to take, this is always a great choice (you’ll be surprised how good you are at it!).
Finding a career in SPIA takes time, but it is time that is well-spent in opportunities that make the most meaningful connections with other people. My time in SPIA is one that I will always be grateful for, and the skills I have developed in these occupations are ones that I look forward to using for the rest of my life!
Author
Courtney Kayla Navarro
A.B. Political Science, M.P.A. Public Administration
Minor in Law, Jurisprudence, and the State
Certificate in Global Studies & Legal Disparity and Equity
University of Georgia | Class of 2026
Morehead Honors College
