Professional Development and Election Administration Advocacy

Lindsey Forson

doi:10.1007/978-3-030-18541-1_16

Abstract

AbstractStudents in public administration and public policy programs often find it difficult to choose a substantive area in which to pursue a career. These are broad fields, and many different options are available. This case study summarizes the experience of choosing a substantive area for one graduate student who eventually chose election cybersecurity as her main focus. She provides insight into why she chose this policy area and why she has been successful in finding career opportunities within this space. The case study concludes with advice for students of public administration and public policy who are trying to select a specific area on which to focus their studies as well as trying to set themselves up for finding a great job and getting onto a successful career trajectory.

Highlights

Students in public administration and public policy programs often find it difficult to choose a substantive area in which to pursue a career
I was pursuing my doctoral degree through the Department of Political Science at Auburn University, a department with a nationally renowned election administration program
I did not have any intention of studying election administration, but as I was soul searching for a substantive area of focus, something else was going on

Summary

My Academic Experience

After the 2016 elections, I took my first election administration- specific course. As the cybersecurity issue progressed during 2017, the federal government took on an increased role, increasing the intergovernmental complexity of the issue space and creating both tension between the federal government and states and localities and an increased need for coordination This perspective prepared me for my current position which essentially requires me to manage intergovernmental relations in this policy area. I presented my research and learned about relevant research from other academics at the Building Better Elections workshop, a pre-conference workshop to the American Political Science Association’s annual conference, and at the Southeastern Conference for Public Administration Through each of these opportunities, I learned new information about election cybersecurity, I got to learn about the relevant organizations and even individuals working in this space. I was able to make personal connections with many of these individuals

Transition to the Professional Environment

Tips for Students

Choose Something Current

Build Strong Relationships with Your Professors

Take Advantage of Opportunities