College Up Close: Katie Noble, public policy
Katie Noble’s passion for public policy has led her to the nation’s capital.
This semester, Noble, who is a double major in public policy and history with a concentration in politics, law, and economics, is interning with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Center for Education and Workforce as part of the Honors Seminar on Public Policy and Global Affairs in Washington, D.C.
At the internship, her focus is on childcare and education, and her role includes working on grant projects and increasing awareness of local and state education initiatives.
“One of the best things about being in D.C. for the semester is the professional and real-world experience,” she said. “The professional skills I have learned through my internship and by getting to interact with experts in the policy field have taught me so much.”
Along with her internship, Noble’s favorite parts of her time in D.C. so far have been seminars and guest lectures, which take a deep dive into foreign and domestic policy issues, as well as career mentorship from professionals in the policy realm.
Though she’s enjoying pushing herself out of her comfort zone in Washington this spring, Carolina will always be home. “I miss the atmosphere of Chapel Hill the most,” she said. “To me, Chapel Hill is welcoming, fun and energizing. You can just feel it in the air when you step on campus.”
Noble is part of NC Fellows, a three-year undergraduate fellowship focused on leadership development and community service. Her favorite Carolina memory is rushing Franklin Street — twice — in both men’s basketball wins over Duke last season. When she’s back on campus, her first stop will be to Merritt’s for a pimento cheese sandwich.
Until then, Noble’s advice to her fellow Tar Heels comes from what she’s learned this semester away: “Believe in yourself and step out of your comfort zone.”
By Jess Abel ’19
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