The Truman School Partners with CAFNR to create a DC Pathway.
The Truman School of Government and Public Affairs (TSGPA) is joined by the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) to offer an exciting opportunity for undergraduate students interested in federal policy and work. Originally designed for CAFNR students, the DC Pathway program provides experiential learning, networking, and career development opportunities in Washington, D.C. and TSGPA has partnered with CAFNR to expand these opportunities for students from both the Truman School and CAFNR gaining firsthand experience in the nation’s capital.
A Collaborative Effort to Foster Future Leaders
Previously, CAFNR offered a course focusing on federal policy and professional skills development, including a trip to Washington, D.C., where students could engage with policymakers and potential employers. With the retirement of Dr. Scott Brown, the Truman School collaborated with CAFNR to continue the program while expanding its reach to include government and public affairs students. Participation in the course is selective, with students chosen based on their interest in federal policy and their demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and service.
Blending Experiential Learning with Academic Rigor
This initiative is not just an immersive experience—it is also a structured academic course. The University of Missouri has set a goal for every graduating senior to complete at least three high-impact practice (HIP) courses, and this program is now recognized as one of them. Designed as a HIP service-learning course, students work with community partners on projects that provide hands-on experience in federal policymaking.
This semester, students are collaborating with U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt’s office. In addition to policy projects, they receive training in federal resume writing, crafting compelling cover letters, perfecting elevator pitches, while sharpening networking skills. The program also features an alumni panel, where former MU students who have pursued careers in federal policy share their experiences, offer career advice, and, in some cases, provide internship opportunities for participants.
Immersion in Washington, D.C.
Kelly Schultz, Director of Legislator Leadership Academy and Internship Experience and instructor for the class, is looking forward to connecting students to career opportunities, “It has been a tremendous experience preparing students for their future. Seeing them engage in the classroom with our guests and alums gets me very excited for the DC trip.” The highlight of the program is the trip to Washington, D.C., where students engage directly with policymakers, congressional staff, policy analysts, and lobbying groups. In addition to structured meetings, the program hosts an alumni networking event, offering students additional opportunities to connect with professionals in their fields of interest. These interactions not only benefit students seeking career guidance and internship opportunities but also provide alumni with a valuable pipeline of future talent.
Ensuring Future Opportunities
A key objective of the program is to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent students from participating. Initial funding from the University, along with generous donations from alumni and the TSGPA advisory board, made this year’s program possible. The Truman School and CAFNR remain committed to identifying resources to continue providing this transformative experience for students in the years to come.
By integrating classroom learning with real-world experience, the DC Pathway program prepares students for meaningful careers in federal policy, which epitome of the Missouri Method. As this initiative grows, it will continue to open doors for students eager to make an impact in the nation’s capital and beyond.