During my time studying through SPIA at the University of Georgia, my coursework has connected and prepared me for experiences outside the classroom, namely through
my internships. As a freshman and sophomore, I interned with the 2030 Project (a Georgia Initiative); I was introduced to broader policy research and long-term social impacts. Now, as I am currently preparing for my junior year internship with the Tennessee Justice Center as a Casework Intern, I am continuing to see how these experiences build upon one another and reflect direct principles emphasized in my SPIA classes.
2030 Project focused on forward-thinking policy solutions, such as adressing sustainability, equity, and economic development. I gained an understanding of how policy
should be utilized to not only respond to current issues, but also to anticipate future challenges. This aligned with my SPIA courses, where we examine how policy decisions
should be shaped by both present needs as well as long-term consequences. Policymaking requires both analytical thinking, but also a deep awareness for the
impacted population.
As I make a transition to my new Casework tole with the Tennessee Justice Center, the focus shifts from broad policy development to a direct, individual-level impact.
Casework requires working closely with individuals who are suffering challenges such as food insecurity and lack of access to necessary services. This hands-on view reflects
another major part of SPIA education: understanding how policy is both implemented and experienced on the ground. Policy may be written with a certain intention, but their
effectiveness is tested when they are applied to real-world situations.
The connection between these two internships represents the full scope the SPIA classes allow us to see public serve, development, and implementation through. 2030 Project emphasizes long-term policy planning, as Tennessee Justice Center highlights the immediate effects of policy on individuals and their community. SPIA allows me to critically analyze both ends of this process, to consider not only what is aimed at achieving but also how they function in practice.
These internships reinforced that policy is not only theoretical; it is deeply human. SPIA has challenged me to think critically about the relationship between law, policy,
and the individuals they impact. This is what continues to draw me to my SPIA classes and reminds me to think about how design of policy as well as compassionate implementation is what leads to meaningful change.
Anabella van Kempen
B.A. Philosophy; B.A. Political Science; B.A. Sociology | Pre-Law Track
