Advice for Students

If you’re here as an aspiring policy wonk, organizer, public servant, or PhD student, there are some resources that might be of help.

First, here and here is a letter I wrote to a former student on how to think about whether doctoral studies is right for you. I’ve anonymized it, but it offers a lot of general food for thought.

Second, if you’re interested in the world of policy, keep an eye on Security in Context, where I’m affiliated. Also check out/get involved with the Scoville Peace Fellowship, the John Quincy Adams Society, Foreign Policy for America, the Partnership for Public Service, Progressive Talent Pipeline, and the Roosevelt Network.

Third, if you’re interested in political action and organizing, consider getting involved with Left Roots, or enrolling in Movement School, the Center for Story-Based Strategy, or People’s Action. And if you’re interested in organizing a union at your workplace but unsure where to start, check out the all-important Emergency Workplace Organizing Committee, which can equip you with the knowledge tools you need. This little guide on How to Organize Your Workplace is also helpful.

Fourth, if writing is your thing, check out this post on how I write, and maybe check out my newsletter.

These days, I’m often asked if public service is worthwhile given the moral and political risks (depending on what governments are doing and who’s running the show). The state needs good people running it. But that doesn’t mean government life is for everyone; it certainly shouldn’t be idealized.

Ultimately, it’s a personal question. I reflect on what’s important to consider here. The main things are not to bullshit yourself about why you’re doing it, the kind of change you can realistically achieve “on the inside,” and your ability to maintain an independent mind amid myriad pressures to think like everyone else.

My generation was high on idealism, low on historical consciousness. Eventually, our ideals curdled into a mix of romanticism about the status quo and cynicism about how the world works. As long as I’m still around, I’m working to change that.