Behind the Scenes: What to Expect from the Washington, DC, Colloquium

A professional master’s program is about more than just theory and lectures. For master’s students at the Carsey School, it’s about the real-world experiences that prepare them for public service leadership. Experiences like the Washington, DC, Colloquium present students with the opportunity to engage directly with national policymakers, nonprofit leaders, and public administrators.

“I loved it. I really appreciated the experience. We got front-row seats to some very impressive people, who were incredibly frank about talking to us about how they do what they do. There’s just no other way to get that perspective,” Faithe said of her DC experience.

Experience Policy in Action

The Washington, DC, Colloquium is a keystone in Carsey’s commitment to experiential learning. The January Term program provides students with a weeklong immersive experience in the heart of American policymaking. Engaging with high-level decision-makers and practitioners, students learn the practical side of policy and administration while growing their networks.

Some recent notable connections include meetings with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan at the White House, experts at the National Science Foundation, leadership at Dixon Davis Media, and more!

Previously offered exclusively to master's in public policy students, the Colloquium is now open to Community Development (MCD), Global Conflict & Human Security (GCHS), and Public Administration (MPA) students, offering an optional in-person element to the online master’s programs.

From the Eyes of an MPA Student

The Colloquium experience isn’t just a highlight of Carsey programs— it’s a defining moment in our students’ academic journeys. For Faithe Miller Lakowicz, this opportunity provided a new perspective on leadership and decision-making in public administration. Reflecting on her experience, she explained “I just can’t speak highly enough to how valuable it was to see people really in their jobs, speaking directly to us, and being so generous with their time and their knowledge.”

The most memorable part of the Colloquium for Faithe was meeting and traveling with other Carsey students, “I didn't really go into this trip thinking I’m going to come out with a dozen new really close friends and colleagues, but I did and that’s—that was just surprising, and it feels great.”

“Face-to-face connecting with folks, one-on-one, really is special. It’s something that you can’t replace. So, I think having that opportunity was especially valuable to me as an MPA online student.”

Discover How Policy Shapes Lives

Now available to students across all of our master’s programs, the DC Colloquium provides invaluable insights that can shape careers and perspectives in public service. Faithe’s experience says it all.

“The Colloquium really brought it home for me. Again, when I’m sitting across the table from someone who has a very high level in our government, and they want to know what is it like for me at UNH— like you realize, okay, Carsey School is a big deal.”

Whether you’re interested in leadership, policy, or nonprofit work, this experience provides insights and connections that can shape your career.