Nick Smith, '18

Majors: Public Policy, Finance
Institutes: Gerald R. Ford Institute for Leadership in Public Policy and Service, Carl A. Gerstacker Institute for Business and Management
Hometown: Midland, MI

With what organizations are you involved on campus?

• Student Senate
• Albion College Conservatives
• Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity
• Swim Team

Why did you choose Ford?

I chose Ford because of the connections and opportunities that come with being a member of Ford. They have connections with Alumni all over the country in which they can put you in contact with when you are looking for internships. They also bring in some great speakers that have really helped to spur my interest in the field. Also Eddie [Associate Director] and Patrick [Director] have a lot of knowledge in the field of public policy that gives you a realistic look into the field of public policy.

What current issue/topic is important to you?

One topic that has become important to me since I have arrived at Albion, is the rebuilding and revitalization of the City of Albion. I think the fact that students are able to be very involved in not only school policies but also the cities provides for a very hands on learning experience that you won't find at a large school. This is a huge advantage to coming to Albion.

In what ways have you been involved with this cause at Albion?

I have been involved with helping the rebuilding of the City of Albion through both Student Senate and the Ford Institute. Student Senate has done a lot of things in order to try and connect students with Albion, through different events and projects such as the Bohm Theatre. The Ford Institute has also helped a lot through their Public Policy classes. For my public policy class I had the opportunity to create a formal recommendation on steps Albion should take to improve its situation, and I also had the opportunity to present this to a panel of city leaders. At Albion, if you want to get involved all you have to do is ask!

What has been the most influential moment for you thus far at Albion College?

My most influential experience at albion was when I had the opportunity to go to Poland on the Holocaust Studies Service Learning Project. Being able to make an impact, and also see the impact that Albion students before me have had was an incredible feeling. Following that up with a tour of Auschwitz and Birkenau was an emotional experience I will never forget.

What do you envision yourself doing after Albion?

After Albion I see myself getting a job in finance for a couple of years before applying for law school.

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