Baruch Undergraduate Chosen for Public Policy International Affairs Summer Fellowship

Osvaldo Garcia will attend the University of Minnesota’s Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs

April 22, 2022

Osvaldo Garcia (’23) is among hundreds of candidates chosen from around the country to participate in the highly competitive Public Policy International Affairs (PPIA) Junior Summer Institute Fellowship.

Garcia, an undergraduate who is majoring in public affairs with a double minor in communications and journalism, will join 21 other selected students to attend the University of Minnesota’s Hubert H. Humphrey School of Public Affairs. He is the second Baruch student to win a PPIA award.

A Future Career in Sustainable Urban Planning

As a fellow in the Humphrey School of Public Affairs’ Junior Summer Institute, Garcia will examine vital issues like global decision making, human rights, diversity and equity, educational and environmental justice, social welfare innovation, climate change, accessible transit and housing, public safety, and racial justice.

“I thought this was the perfect opportunity for me, and I started preparing my application immediately after attending a Fellowship event that Baruch hosted,” said Garcia. “The process was strenuous, but it made me realize what my passions truly are and what I want to pursue in my career.”

Garcia is interested in pursuing a career in sustainable urban planning, and wanted to attend the University of Minnesota because it was one of the only programs with a focus on environmental injustice.

“I am looking forward to sharpening my research and quantitative skills which will be vital for my career. Additionally, I am excited to connect with a strong network of individuals who are doing incredible public service projects!”

About the PPIA Fellowship

The PPIA Fellowship is a rigorous, seven-week academic and experiential learning program that prepares undergraduate students to launch careers in public service. The program was started to address the lack of diversity across the spectrum of professional public service, including government, nonprofits, public policy institutions, and international organizations. The purpose of the Fellowship is to set up students to obtain a Master’s or joint degree, typically in public policy, public administration, international affairs, or a related field.

Fellowships and Scholarships Advising Support

Baruch students interested in applying for fellowships and scholarships can visit Baruch College’s Office of National & Prestigious Fellowships Advising. This office helps guide students through the application process when pursuing awards that support their academic studies.

In addition to the PPIA Fellowship, other opportunities available to students include the Fulbright award, Jeannette K. Watson Fellowship, Gilman International Scholarship, Freeman-ASIA scholarships, Venture for America, and many more.

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