James Marcucci stands in front of a glass ball with sparks inside to simulate electricity at the museum
James Marcucci, MPP'25, "playing with electricity" at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

James Marcucci, MPP'25, shares his experience attending the University of Chicago Graduate Council’s Spring Soirée at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. 

As I approach my final weeks at the Harris School of Public Policy, I’ve found myself reflecting on the best things about this school. One of the greatest gifts of being a Harris student is the freedom to explore and engage with communities, classes, and events across the University of Chicago. This is a place that truly encourages engagement and connection.

I’ve spent countless afternoons at the Institute of Politics, chatting with visiting former senators, CEOs, and ambassadors about everything from bipartisan collaboration to climate diplomacy. I’ve taken classes outside of Harris with the Committee on Education, the Political Science Department, and the Booth School of Business. It was always interesting to see how folks from different disciplines approach the same social problems. 

Beyond academics, the campus is alive with energy and celebration. I’ve attended dozens of events hosted by friends and student organizations, but one of my favorites—both this year and last—has been the Grad Gala. 

Tickets sell out quickly, and I felt lucky to get two for my boyfriend and me. I spent the next month in eager anticipation of the night. It’s an excuse to pull at all the stops—to wear the lovely blazer that I thrifted, enjoy some hors d'oeuvres, and dance amidst a crowd of friends and friends I haven’t made yet. 

students at the spring soiree in the museum of science and industry mingling in glowing blue light
The Grad Gala at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

The Gala is always held at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, a massive building filled with exhibits ranging from a full-sized Boeing 747 embedded on the top floor to a reconstructed coal mine stretching far below. My partner and I wandered through the exhibits as dance music from the early 2000s echoed off the high marble ceilings. Playing with lightning in the physics section was my favorite part, but the flight simulator was a bit less fun when I accidentally flipped us over and spent most of the simulation upside-down.

But the best part wasn’t the exhibits—it was the people. I shared ice cream with fellow Harristas, danced with the Divinity School students, and explored the anatomy exhibit with a medical student who gave us a spontaneous mini-lecture. It was a rare and joyful night that captured what’s most special about this school: the chance to build real connections.

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