Hello! My name is Avanti Haque, I am a second year graduate student pursuing a Master of Public Policy degree. I moved to the Phoenix metro area from Winnipeg, Canada, last August, experiencing the infamous heat and sun for the first time. Cannot say I have gotten accustomed to the weather, however I do appreciate the summer-like temperatures in December. Enough about the weather, let me provide some details about me. From a young age, I was interested in politics and how government impacts our lives in almost every facet. It seemed like individuals who were most affected by specific policies and legislation often did not have a platform to make their voices heard. My interest in politics and international relations led me to an undergraduate degree in Political Studies at the University of Manitoba (in Winnipeg).
Soon after graduation, I was fortunate to land an internship in rural Botswana through Students Without Borders. This program allows students to gain first hand experience in development projects with local partners. I interned with an after school program, Stepping Stones International. Here, I was able to interact with students from 11 - 18. Stepping Stones provides a safe place for vulnerable youth and ensures they have access to support, both academically and emotionally. As I mentioned earlier, I was interested in social issues for quite some time, but this experience made me realize I wanted a career in education or development in some capacity.
Fast forward a few years and I am hopefully near the end of graduate school and moving towards that goal. Presently, I am interning with the Morrison Institute for Public Policy at Arizona State University. The nature of the position has allowed me learn more about policy formulation and implementation from the ground level, which was also one of my goals of the internship. Two other goals are: to learn and adapt ways to include citizens as part of the policy making process, and become better acquainted with Arizona's political realm. Each day presents new learning opportunities. Interning at an institute where I can gain an "insider's perspective" on local issues is something I cherish. Someday, I would love to work in education policy, as an analyst or program evaluator. Nevertheless, the future is always uncertain.
Avanti,,
ReplyDeleteYou have some admirable work and learning experiences. I enjoyed reading about your goals and accomplishments. I'm sure you will make great contributions in politics, especially with your interests in policy making, and Arizona's political arena. I just had a discussion on direct democracy or pure democracy as it was termed which includes the input of citizens, to create a more legitimate form of policy making. In my opinion, there has been a lack of consideration for the public's needs and even slower movement in government, to put policies in place that will create the changes needed. It seems that the general public has more concern and input that could be used to better our country. I think that many of the representatives in political offices are doing a disservice to our nation when the congressional, judicial and executive branches aren't making decisions quick enough to implement changes that benefit the world.
Hello Aj,
DeleteWhen it comes to the discussion of "democracy" and how it translates to citizens I often feel disheartened. Those in office seem to represent a select few, and it is becoming more difficult to become elected when one comes from a modest background. I think back to the last presidential election and the amount spent by each candidate...I believe it was the most spent per candidate in history which just goes to highlight the point about $.
Yes, the general public is overlooked, however when election time rolls around candidates act as if they will provide a forum for their needs. We need to find more innovative ways to include the general public in policy making...I will discuss this in one of my upcoming posts~