Undergraduate Public Policy Students’ Association (UPPSA)

Undergraduate Public Policy Students’ Association (UPPSA)

Undergraduate Public Policy Students’ Association (UPPSA)

The Undergraduate Public Policy Students' Association serves as the official student union representing the Munk School's diverse and passionate Public Policy Major student body at the University of Toronto. UPPSA is driven by a commitment to fostering a sense of community: we host academic events, provide unique networking opportunities for students, and allow our student body to learn more about career opportunities beyond graduation. Overall, UPPSA aims to create spaces where students can build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and explore pathways beyond the classroom.

About

The Undergraduate Public Policy Students' Association is the democratically elected student union representing the community of Public Policy Major students at the University of Toronto. UPPSA is committed to supporting career development and building its student body’s professional network and portfolio. 

Our Mission

At UPPSA, our mission is to cultivate lifelong professional relationships for public policy students. We recognize the transformative power of connections in the realm of public policy and are dedicated to creating an environment where students can forge meaningful relationships with peers, esteemed faculty members, policy professionals, and industry experts. Through networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and collaborative events, we aim to foster connections and opportunities for our student body.

Our Directives

Career Development

Through workshops, networking events, and mentorship programs, we provide valuable resources and opportunities to help students thrive in their career pursuits. 

Diverse Community

UPPSA proudly serves a diverse student body with a diverse range of policy interests. We work to provide a platform to represent a range of perspectives and backgrounds, ensuring equitable access to experience and opportunities for all.

Student Advocacy

As the official student union for Public Policy Majors, UPPSA is dedicated to advocating for the interests and concerns of the student body. We operate on a feedback-based system and are actively engaged with students, faculty, and administration to ensure the continuous improvement of the Public Policy student experience. 

These directives serve as the guiding principles for the projects and events we undertake, shaping UPPSA’s commitment to improving the public policy student experience.

Our Events

UPPSA offers three main events: Policy Professional Networking Night, Professional Mentorship Program and EY x UPPSA Workshops.

Policy Professional Networking Night 

Policy Professional Networking Night (PPNN) is an annual event providing an opportunity for students to connect with policy experts in both the private and public sectors. Students can engage in conversation with professionals from industries of interest, gain insight into diverse policy sectors and career paths, and expand their professional network. This event is designed to help Public Policy Majors forge meaningful connections and shape their career trajectory in the field of public policy.  

mentorship

Professional Mentorship Program

Our Professional Mentorship Program (PMP) provides personalized guidance from a variety of policy-associated industries. Connect with experienced mentos from backgrounds in policy, law, research, and social development who are willing to share their knowledge and help you navigate your career path. This program offers a unique opportunity to receive one-on-one advice, industry insights, and authentic connections.  

mentorship

EY Case Consulting Workshops

UPPSA has seen a large student interest in consulting, and this collaboration with EY aims to train non-business students in consulting fundamentals. The workshops span the entire year, and students undergo a fairly competitive selection process. 

mentorship
Areas of focus - Victor Dementiev/Unsplash

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