Amneet Kaur, Certificate in Public Policy

What excites me most about the public policy certificate is how it connects what I am learning to real life decisions. A lot of my coursework in economics and environmental studies focuses on big ideas, but policy is where those ideas actually get applied. I like that it pushes me to think about how decisions are made, who is involved, and what the real consequences are for different communities.

Why public policy

A big part of what shaped my decision to pursue the certificate comes from my connection to my ancestral land, Punjab. Punjab is facing issues like air pollution, water contamination, and the effects of intensive agriculture. They directly affect people’s health, livelihoods, and daily lives. These challenges are not just environmental, but connected to policy. Agricultural policies, industrial regulation, and infrastructure planning all play a role in these outcomes. Change cannot happen without a strong, thoughtful policy in place. That is what pushed me to focus on public policy as well.

Advice for prospective students

My biggest piece of advice is to really make the most of your time. Some of the most valuable parts of the college experience happen outside of class. Conversations with people in your classes can often turn into friendships. The same goes for your professors. Reach out, go to office hours, and engage with them. They have so much experience, and taking that extra step can open doors you didn’t even know existed. More than anything, be intentional about your time. Try things, ask questions, and take advantage of the opportunities around you, because before you know it, it will be over.

Anything else

My hobbies include cooking, baking, quilting, traveling, working out/fitness, and gardening!