As a school of public affairs, the student organizations play an unusually important role in our education. Knowledge gained in the classroom receives a vital complement with the activities and dialogue that take place among student-run organizations. Currently there are several “official” student organizations and a national forum on public policy, all of which are organized and led by students.

The freedom for students to lead organizations and initiatives that line up with policy interests is an excellent feature of the LBJ School. In many ways, the school is much like a microcosm of the real political world. The reality of the two-year length of the Master’s program means that the continuity of student organizations depends on proactive leadership and involvement of students. (Translation: We need YOU to help us keep things going!!!)

Whether you choose to participate in an established organization or find yourself starting a new initiative, getting your nose out of the books and exercising your policy muscles is important. However you become involved in student life at the LBJ School, the experience is guaranteed to be an invaluable one.

• Dive right in! Keep your eyes and ears open during Camp LBJ and Orientation for information about events sponsored by student organizations in September and October. GPAC has several positions that need willing and able 1st-year LBJers to fill.

• Be creative! Look for needs or policy interests that aren’t being served by a current student organization, and try to start your own.