PPIA Explorers Program
The Explorers Program, formerly known as the Public Service Weekend, offers hands-on experiences and real conversations that help you understand public policy and international affairs, and possible paths forward.
Sands of Time
Why Explorers
Explorers is designed to help you learn by experiencing.
Instead of guessing what a career in public service might be like, you’ll get a front-row look at the work, the people, and the pathways so you can better understand what resonates with you and what you might want to explore next.
Where And Where Explorers Happens
Explorers Programs take place throughout the year and are hosted by PPIA Consortium School Partners across the country.
Each host university brings its own focus areas, faculty, and strengths, while PPIA connects students to a national network of alumni, speakers, and future opportunities. Program dates and application details are announced on a rolling basis and shared through our social channels, newsletter, and email. Follow along to stay up to date on upcoming opportunities.
What You'll Explore During The Weekend
Over 2–3 days, the Explorers Program gives you a hands-on look at public policy, public service, and the many paths people take to make an impact. Each part of the weekend is designed to help you explore ideas, careers, and possibilities through experience, not just information.
Learn from people in the field
Hear directly from public service professionals, faculty, and alumni about the work they do, the paths they’ve taken, and what their careers actually look like day-to- day. These conversations are honest, practical, and grounded in real experience.
Explore Real Policy Challenges
Dive into timely policy issues through interactive workshops and discussions. You’ll explore how public policy connects to real communities, global challenges, and the decisions that shape our world.
See What Your Path Could Be
Learn about different ways people move from college into public service, policy roles, and graduate study. You’ll gain insight into options you may not have considered and what it takes to pursue them.
Build Meaningful Connections
Meet students who share your curiosity, along with mentors and alumni who are eager to share advice and perspective. Many participants leave with new connections that continue well beyond the weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Public Service Weekends?
The Explorers Program, formerly known as the Public Service Weekend, is a free, immersive 2–3 day experience for college students who want to explore public policy, global affairs, and public service careers.
Hosted by PPIA Consoritum School Partners, Explorers gives students hands-on exposure to real policy issues, honest conversations with people in the field, and insight into the many paths into public service.
Who can attend?
Explorers is open to current undergraduate students from all majors and backgrounds.
You don’t need prior experience in public policy or a defined career plan. If you’re curious about public service, global affairs, or graduate study and want to explore your options, you’re encouraged to apply.
How much does it cost?
The Explorers Program is completely free to attend. Many host universities also offer support for travel, lodging, and meals to help make participation accessible.
When do Explorers Programs take place?
Explorers Programs take place throughout the year, typically over a Friday–Sunday. Dates vary by host university and are announced on a rolling basis as they are confirmed.
How do I apply?
Each Explorers Program has its own application process managed by the host university. Once dates are confirmed, application details are shared through PPIA’s website, social channels, newsletter, and email.
What happens after the Explorers Program?
After the program, students can stay connected through PPIA’s national network and learn about additional opportunities, including virtual programming, graduate school pathways, and eligibility for the PPIA Junior Summer Institute.
