LBJ School Experience Develops Next Generation of Leaders
"My policy research project was my most cherished experience here at LBJ," says Amanda McKee, a 2018 Master of Global Policy Studies (MGPS) graduate who studied the security, law, and diplomacy track.
Amanda, along with her peers, participated in a policy research project (PRP) that examined integration and cooperation between the intelligence community and special operations forces in the years leading up to and after the 9/11 attacks.
"At the end of the project, we had the opportunity to go to D.C. as a team and brief members of the National Security Council and Office of the Director of National Intelligence," Amanda says. "For a security nerd like me, it was the highlight of my education experience." The PRP was sponsored by the National Security Council (NSC) and received positive responses from the intelligence community.
In addition to her powerful PRP experience, Amanda says she gained valuable leadership skills at the LBJ School.
"LBJ is a place where leaders come to grow," she says. "I feel like my leadership capabilities have grown exponentially, and with that comes self-confidence and the ability to have a conversation with leaders across disciplines."
When asked why she is entering public service now, Amanda says, "Public service is needed more than ever."
The LBJ School populates the workforce with alumni who are determined to make an impact. By supporting the LBJ School, the institution can continue to provide a high-quality education to outstanding students like Amanda, who will go on to contribute viable solutions to society.