In a few sentences, what is your role at the agency you work for?
During my time as a fellow at OPRE, I have worked as a program manager on several grants, contracts, and cooperative agreement spanning OPRE’s Child Care and Head Start portfolios. I worked on a variety of grant management activities and support the "federal acquisition process" on new procurements.
What interested you in becoming an SRCD Policy Fellow?
I was interested in becoming an SRCD Policy Fellow because I was interested in learning about the innerworkings of federal institutions. Oftentimes, scientists do not have insight into how these institutions work and make recommendations based on assumptions. In the process, I wanted to better understand the needs of the people served by these institutions. Finally, I was interested in learning about how policymakers employ research in their legislative processes.
What has been your favorite aspect of SRCD’s fellowship? Please explain why.
My favorite aspect of SRCD’s fellowship has been seeing in real time, how the work being done at OPRE contribute to policy. Two briefs from a project in my portfolio were cited as evidence in support of the proposal of the Child Care Workforce Act on July 31, 2024.
Why should someone else apply for this fellowship?
The fellowship is an opportunity for individuals who are interested in policy work but do not quite know where in the policy space they would like to work. Although I am placed in the executive branch, I have exposure to how policy works in the legislative branch, as well as how non-governmental organizations contribute to the policy making process.
What has been an interesting professional development opportunity you have completed during the fellowship?
This spring, I had the opportunity to attend the SRCD Anti-Racist Developmental Science Summit: Transforming Research, Practices, and Policies in Panama City, Panama. I attended some insightful sessions and met interesting people that are doing important work in this space.
What is your favorite place you have traveled?
My favorite place I have traveled is Costa Rica. On this trip I saw some of the most beautiful rainforests, beaches, and wild animals; and met some of the friendliest and open people I’ve met to date.