My Student Experience: Students Explore Education Policy Issues through Advocacy in Action Policy Fellowship | College of Education News

March 17, 2026 - 22:18

A new fellowship program is empowering students to move from classroom theory to real-world policy change. The inaugural Advocacy in Action Policy Fellowship, launched this fall, offers a year-long professional development journey for both graduate and undergraduate students.

The cohort is designed to demystify the complexities of North Carolina's educational landscape. Participants are gaining a direct understanding of current state policies while building connections with seasoned experts and practitioners actively working in the field. The program goes beyond analysis, providing hands-on training in the mechanics of effective policy advocacy.

A core component of the fellowship is collaboration. Students are working closely with their peers to identify shared policy priorities. This collective focus will culminate in the development and implementation of a concrete advocacy plan, translating their academic insights into actionable strategies aimed at influencing the educational system.

The initiative represents a significant investment in developing the next generation of policy-savvy educators and advocates. By equipping students with practical knowledge, professional networks, and advocacy skills, the fellowship aims to create informed leaders ready to engage with and shape the future of education in their communities and across the state.