Applied Public Policy Strategies (APPS)

Applied Public Policy Strategies at Cornell (APPS) is a student-run club that provides members with practical experience in public policy analysis and consulting. We work on real policy projects, allowing students to develop their analytical skills and make meaningful contributions to important policy issues.

Each project team consists of 5 members total, including:

• 1 Project Manager
  • Responsibilities: leads the team, coordinates workflow, and manages client relationships.
  • Profile: upperclassman with professional experience and client management training.
• 4 Policy Analysts
  • Responsibilities: conduct research, perform analysis, and contribute to deliverables.
  • Profile: underclassmen with significant training in common project tasks.

This structure ensures that every team member has meaningful responsibilities while maintaining effective collaboration.

APPS takes on a variety of policy projects across different issue areas. Projects may include policy research, program evaluation, stakeholder analysis, and developing policy recommendations for real clients. The diverse project portfolio allows members to explore different areas of public policy and develop versatile analytical skills.

APPS focuses specifically on applied public policy work within government consulting, giving members hands-on experience with real policy challenges. Our project-based approach, combined with comprehensive training and small team sizes, ensures that every member gains substantial experience in policy analysis and consulting. We bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional policy work.

All APPS policy analysts are required to commit 3 to 5 hours per week. This time includes:

• Team meetings to discuss project progress.
• Individual research and analysis work.
• Preparing deliverables and presentations.
• Occasional general body meetings.

We understand that students have busy schedules, and we strive to make the commitment manageable while still providing valuable experience.

No prior experience is necessary. APPS provides comprehensive training to all members before they begin working on projects. Our training program covers:

• Policy analysis frameworks and methodologies.
• Research techniques and data analysis.
• Professional communication and presentation skills.
• Project management best practices.

We welcome students from all majors and backgrounds who are interested in learning about public policy.

Information about recruitment and applications is typically announced at the beginning of each semester. We encourage interested students to attend our information sessions and reach out via appliedpps@gmail.com to learn more about the club. Stay tuned to our communications for application timelines and requirements.

Absolutely. APPS welcomes students from all majors across Cornell University. We value diverse perspectives and believe that students from different academic backgrounds bring unique insights to policy analysis. Whether you are studying economics, government, engineering, human development, or any other field, you can contribute to and benefit from APPS.

Through your involvement with APPS, you will develop:

• Analytical skills: learn to evaluate complex policy issues and data.
• Research skills: conduct thorough policy research using various sources.
• Communication skills: present findings clearly in written reports and presentations.
• Teamwork: collaborate effectively with diverse team members.
• Project management: manage timelines, deliverables, and client expectations.
• Professional development: gain real-world consulting experience.

Yes. APPS provides excellent preparation for careers in:

• Public policy consulting.
• Government and public service.
• Government affairs.
• Think tanks and research organizations.
• Nonprofit management.
• Graduate programs in public policy, law, or related fields.
• Advocacy-related roles.

The practical experience, professional skills, and networking opportunities you gain through APPS are highly valued by employers and graduate programs.