Julia Kerson

What initially inspired you to pursue a career in public service or policy, and how did your time at the Trachtenberg School shape that path?

I have always been interested in puzzles - looking at things from every angle, drawing connections, and finding patterns. I was a very opinionated child and my parents encouraged me to turn my thoughts into action. I organized trips and social activities, started public service projects in my community, and proposed programs to the local government when something didn’t make sense to me. I used my time at the Trachtenberg School to satiate my curiosity about all things. I took courses across a broad range of policy areas and really enjoyed pulling it all together into the econometrics and statistics work that made it seem like every policy problem had a mathematical solution. I was drawn to a fellowship after graduation that, similarly, afforded me the opportunity to ease into the workforce with a program of rotation based hands on learning opportunities across a variety of policy areas. 

The Trachtenberg School encouraged my curiosity - a curiosity that has followed me throughout my career and led me from one career opportunity to the next. 

What does being named a Trachtenberg Alumni Impact Honoree mean to you personally?

I am incredibly honored to be recognized by the Trachtenberg School and touched that the school believes the impact of my work is worthy of recognition. I can only hope to continue having the kind of impact that the Trachtenberg School can be proud of. 

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership is about setting a tone of collaboration and impact - identifying and communicating a common vision and surrounding yourself with likeminded professionals with the skills necessary to execute on that vision.

What advice would you give Trachtenberg students and alumni who want to make a meaningful impact?

It is important to be solutions oriented. Sometimes workplaces can inadvertently incentivize problem identification by rewarding those who spot an issue before anyone else but the impact (and the reward) really comes when you identify the problem, the solution, and are willing to roll your sleeves up and get to work.