In Partnership with the Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Program
EXPLORERS
PROGRAM
A Three-Day, All-Expenses Paid National Policy Leadership Experience
The University of Texas, Austin
Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs
July 18 - 20, 2026
Ready To Lead in Public Service? Start Here.
The 2026 LBJ School Explorers Program (formerly Public Service Leadership Weekend) brings rising leaders to Austin for an all-expenses paid, high-impact policy experience designed to prepare you for graduate study and careers in public service.
Where & When
University of Texas, Austin
Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs
July 18 - 20, 2026
Austin, TX
We pay for your travel, housing and meals so you can focus on the experience.
Who It's For
Rising sophomores, juniors, seniors, and recent graduates who are exploring graduate study in public policy and are ready to take the next step toward a career in public service
What You'll Do
Engage in hands-on policy discussions, collaborate with peers on real-world challenges, connect with LBJ School faculty and students, and experience what graduate study in public policy looks and feels like
What You'll Gain
A stronger understanding of graduate study in public policy, meaningful connections with future policy leaders, and the confidence and skills to turn your commitment to public service into action.
Inside The Experience
High-level, student-friendly, and specific enough to picture yourself in the room
Policy In Action: Innovative Skills For Emerging Issues In Texas and The American South
Engage with Featured LBJ School Speakers and the faculty shaping today’s public policy through research and real-world practice
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Who Should Apply
If you’re curious about public policy, public affairs, or graduate study and want an experience that helps you clarify what’s next, the Explorers Program is for you
You'll Explore "The Why"
You care about public policy and public affairs challenges and want to understand where you fit in, and what “impact” can look like in real life.
You're Building Your Toolkit
You want practical skills: evidence-based thinking, negotiation, leadership, and communicating solutions
You're Mapping Your Next Step
You’re considering internships, fellowships, or graduate school and want guidance and a network to support you
