Event showcases how GPS students shine bridging theory and practice
A student from the UC San Diego School of Global Policy and Strategy (GPS) brought home the win this year at the 2024 Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) Student Simulation Competition. Master of Public Policy (MPP) ’24 graduate Angela Solanilla and her team, Madison Derendinger from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey and Caisey Chang from San Diego State University, were selected as first place winners in the competition, held this past March.
Solanilla was one of seven GPS students who competed. Two groups with GPS team members, which included Master of International Affairs (MIA) ’25 candidate Yin Min Lim, advanced to the final session.
“It’s immensely satisfying to realize we’re prepared to tackle current international issues,” Solanilla said. “This opportunity has boosted my confidence and showed the practical value of our education.”
The simulation addressed a refugee crisis and a sudden influx of migrants; the winning strategy emphasized rapid action and international cooperation.
“Our crisis strategy positioned our country as a central link in the response, seeking financial support from other nations,” Solanilla explained.
Courses and internships played a crucial role.
“When I first received the invitation to take part in the simulation, I immediately thought of my summer internship at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees,” Solanilla shared. “My summer internship and professor Craig McIntosh‘s economic development class were invaluable.”
Lim agreed that coursework while at GPS had been a huge motivation to participate in the competition.
“I’ve always been interested in refugee issues and had taken a course on humanitarian response during the winter quarter,” Lim explained. “I felt that participating in this competition would help me delve deeper into the various factors decision makers need to consider when formulating refugee-related policies.”
The competition demonstrated the importance of experiential learning.
“One of our primary objectives is to enable students to apply their learning, which enriches their academic experience and strengthens their performance in job interviews and career outcomes,” said Associate Director of Employer Engagement Kemi Talabi.
To learn more about how GPS prepares students for careers after graduation, visit our website.