SDSU Public Affairs Students Dive into the Heart of Public Service in Washington, DC

This spring, students from San Diego State University's School of Public Affairs took a transformative journey to Washington, DC as part of their PA 596 course, combining academic engagement with real-world exposure. The highlight of the trip was participation in the 2025 American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) Annual Conference, themed “Not Robots Yet: Keeping Public Servants in Public Service.” Held at the historic Mayflower Hotel, the conference provided students with a platform to connect with professionals, attend scholarly panels, and reflect on the evolving landscape of public administration.

The five-day trip from March 26–30 was packed with rich educational experiences. From the moment students landed in the nation's capital, they immersed themselves in sessions exploring ethics, social equity, and the implications of AI and digital tools in governance. Through ASPA's various panels and symposia, students explored emerging trends, networked with scholars and practitioners, and observed firsthand the challenges and innovations shaping public service today.

One of the most impactful moments of the trip was the group’s visit to Capitol Hill, hosted by Congressman Juan Vargas (CA-52). A committed advocate for social justice and human rights, Congressman Vargas offered an insightful conversation on policy, legislation, and life in public office. His personal journey from San Diego to the halls of Congress deeply resonated with the students, many of whom aspire to serve their communities through public leadership.

“We were inspired not only by Congressman Vargas’s message but by his authenticity and openness,” said Dr. Dominika Bukalova, faculty leader of the trip. “The experience reminded us of the human side of government—the commitment, compassion, and resilience it takes to be a public servant.”

In addition to the ASPA conference and Capitol Hill visit, students took time to explore iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Tidal Basin during cherry blossom season. These visits reinforced course lessons and gave students the chance to reflect on the broader historical and civic context of their studies.

Students will carry their experiences forward through two major assignments: a Conference Sessions Brief and a Trip Reflection Essay. These written reflections help synthesize academic themes, personal insights, and professional development takeaways from the trip.

“This trip changed the way I see public administration,” shared one student. “Being around professionals who care deeply about equity, technology, and service helped me see where I might fit into the field.”

The Washington, DC trip is more than just an academic requirement, it’s a bridge between classroom learning and public service in action. With opportunities like these, SDSU’s School of Public Affairs continues to equip future leaders with the tools, experiences, and inspiration to serve with purpose and impact.