Curious about pursuing a career at the intersection of social impact and data analysis? Turn your passion for doing good into measurable impact with the Policy Research and Innovation Bootcamp (PRIB). 

PRIB is a two-week, in-person program, encompassing rigorous training in policy research methods, hands-on projects addressing real-world policy challenges, and unique opportunities for career exploration and leadership development. PRIB’s on-campus, in-person format allows you to engage and network with top policy scholars across interdisciplinary University of Chicago centers and institutes. Here are six reasons why you should consider enrolling: 

1. Immerse yourself in academic excellence from University of Chicago faculty. 

Immerse yourself in lessons with renowned University of Chicago faculty members. Module 1, "Crafting Impactful Research," guides you through the research process and methods used in public policy studies. Professor Austin Wright emphasizes a practical approach, from formulating relevant questions and hypotheses to producing substantive research. Gain skills to expertly navigate academic literature and develop research designs for the professional or academic context.  

2. Connect with leading UChicago research centers and institutes. 

One important component of PRIB is the opportunity to meaningfully engage and connect with leading scholars from interdisciplinary UChicago research centers and institutes. You will meet with leaders and practitioners across top research centers at UChicago, such as the Becker Friedman Institute (BFI), the Energy Policy Institute at UChicago (EPIC), Stone Center for Research on Wealth Inequality and Mobility, the The Pearson Institute for the Study and Resolution of Global Conflicts, and the National Opinion Research Center (NORC).  

3. Join a Policy Hackathon for real-world solutions. 

Experience a challenging and fun Policy Hackathon. Collaborate intensively with peers, guided by professors and teaching assistants, to develop innovative solutions for specific policy challenges. The condensed timeframe encourages rapid idea generation, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving. Present your findings to a panel of experts and receive valuable feedback. 

4. Unlock authentic leadership skills. 

Through self-exploration exercises and coaching support, you will have the opportunity to hone your self-awareness, gain deeper insights into your talents, and walk away with enhanced decision-making abilities. Build a cohesive career compass aligned with your strengths and authentic leadership skills.  

5. Embark on an insightful career trek.  

Take your learning beyond the classroom in a one-day social impact career trek. Visit Chicago-based organizations leading social impact-driven work through research and innovation. Network with industry leaders, witness organizational inner workings, and gain firsthand insight into the industries shaping the policy landscape.  

6. Savor the summer in Chicago. 

The city of Chicago is a place to learn, play, and be inspired. Ivy-covered buildings, hole-in-the-wall cafes, and beautiful green spaces are just a few features of the UChicago Hyde Park campus, where PRIB students get a sense of UChicago student life. Summertime in Chicago also affords opportunities in every corner of the third-largest city in the United States. Hop on a CTA bus or train for a quick trip downtown, and soon you and your friends will be posing for selfies at Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), atop Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), and at storefronts along Michigan Avenue (the "Magnificent Mile").  

 

Don't miss the chance to deepen your research skills, unleash your creativity, and craft your best career move. Start your application today or attend an upcoming event. If you have any questions, contact harriscredential@uchicago.edu. We look forward to working with you! 

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