Fifteen undergraduates from across the United States spent their summer on the Harvard Kennedy School campus for the second annual Junior Summer Institute (JSI@HKS) as JSI Summer Scholars.

The fully funded, seven-week program prepares rising seniors for graduate studies and careers in public service. JSI is the signature summer offering of the Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Program, which partners with public policy schools across the country to develop the next generation of public leaders. JSI Summer Scholars have gone on to receive merit-based scholarships to top public policy graduate schools.

Nyla Jones, a natural resource and environmental conservation major at Mississippi State University, was once set on becoming an environmental scientist, but discovered a passion for public policy. This summer, she gained the skills to turn her environmental goals into actionable policy and redefined what authentic leadership means for her.

My journey to public policy has been far from linear.

I never considered a future in public policy before college—my end goal was to work in the field as an environmental scientist. During my freshman year, I thought my future was in environmental law, but after a natural resource policy internship in Washington, D.C. the summer of my sophomore year, I figured, why not give public policy a try?

JSI@HKS shaped and deepened my interest in public policy. It gave me insight into the world beyond the news headlines and textbooks. My understanding grew as I worked on case studies, participated in workshops, and took intensive courses on economics, statistics, and policy creation that went beyond superficially learning the fundamental principles. I learned how to apply them for optimal results.

For me, the project with the greatest impact was our comprehensive, cumulative personal policy challenge (a.k.a., PPC). I knew what environmental policy entailed, but not how to set things in motion. This project was incredibly intensive, but rewarding in numerous ways. I was given the chance to apply the lessons I learned over the summer to a project that represented my passions. I learned how to be a better policy creator and changer. It showed me my goals are tangible—not far-fetched—and worthy of consideration.

Throughout the activities and experiences we took part in this summer, there was a recurring theme: how to be a better leader. JSI@HKS reshaped my definition. I realized there is no "one-size-fits-all" we must conform to, to direct change. Leadership means showing dedication to your cause and staying true to yourself. I learned I am a quiet but active leader and don't always have to be the loudest person in the room to make an impact. JSI@HKS taught me I can lead authentically and, therefore, be more effective.

The American South is my stomping ground; Cambridge was my calling. When I first read my acceptance email to JSI@HKS, it felt like a dream. Never did I think I would be a part of something so vibrant, so beautiful. The love and support HKS gave is something I could have only imagined months ago. I now know it is real. HKS presented to me a door I didn't know existed. I will forever be grateful for the key it placed in my hands.