From Aspiring Advocate to Policy Manager: Drew Ambrogi’s Journey
In less than a year since embarking on his Master’s in Public Policy at McCourt, Drew Ambrogi (MPP-EP’27) has leveraged a policy fellowship into a significant full-time role, positioning himself at the forefront of emerging technology.
Ambrogi initiated his journey into public policy within the dynamic realm of the gig economy. What commenced as a grassroots advocacy effort for gig workers quickly broadened to encompass regulatory frameworks and legislative discussions that govern this evolving sector.
Recognizing the necessity for a profound comprehension of the policy milieu, he sought advanced academic training at McCourt. Drew Ambrogi (MPP-EP’27)
“Pursuing an MPP provided a bridge between my subject-matter expertise and analytical capabilities,” Ambrogi asserts.
“My aim was to transition from grassroots advocacy towards a more comprehensive focus on technology policy, while cultivating the tools and networks essential for a more substantial impact.”
Upon joining McCourt, he was resolute in his ambition to transform these aspirations into tangible outcomes.
During his inaugural semester, Ambrogi became a member of the Tech & Public Policy program’s visiting fellows student leadership team (SLT).
This select cohort of students facilitates interactions between visiting fellows and the broader school community through timely discussion groups, site visits, and events.
“I had the privilege of working closely with Fall 2024 Visiting Fellow Ashkhen Kazaryan, whose interests in online speech, Section 230, AI, copyright, and privacy mirrored my own,” he reflects.
“Our discussions were enlightening, providing insights into not just the policy issues but also the landscape and key players influencing tech policy in Washington, DC.” Drew Ambrogi (MPP-EP’27 ’27) with Ashkhen Kazaryan and SLT members
This invaluable experience led him to a transformative fellowship opportunity within Google’s Public Policy Fellowship program, which paved the way for his current full-time position.
“Ashkhen took our SLT under her wing. She introduced me to the Google Public Policy Fellowship and connected me with individuals at Chamber of Progress. Those connections were critical in guiding my decision to pursue the fellowship.”
His SLT involvement culminated in the prestigious Google Public Policy Fellowship at Chamber of Progress, propelling his professional journey forward. Drew Ambrogi (MPP-EP’27 ’27) with Ashkhen Kazaryan’s SLT and McCourt Students at Meta’s Washington, DC offices
Commencing his fellowship at the start of the second semester, Ambrogi contributed to the Chamber of Progress tech policy team, tackling issues surrounding AI and online speech.
His responsibilities included drafting regulatory comments, aiding state-level advocacy initiatives, and interfacing with congressional staff on matters of AI governance and data privacy.
After two semesters in this role, Ambrogi was offered a full-time position as a policy manager at Chamber of Progress, overseeing a portfolio that includes civic innovation and the sharing economy. He adeptly transitioned to McCourt’s evening program, a process he describes as “seamless.”
“Entering the MPP program, I never anticipated working full-time in tech policy within a year; however, McCourt opened doors swiftly, particularly through TPP’s robust industry connections,” Ambrogi states.
As he progresses in his McCourt education, Ambrogi shares insights regarding the most beneficial aspects of his experience.
“A paramount facet of my McCourt journey has been the curriculum’s ability to broaden my skill set,” he observes.
“Previously, I had no background in economics, and I didn’t see myself as a ‘quantitative person,’ but the quantitative sequence truly unlocked new dimensions of thinking for me.”
“Equally valuable has been the community,” he adds. “Being surrounded by peers equally passionate about policy invigorates discussions, and the diversity of perspectives has profoundly enriched my learning.”
As Ambrogi continues his career progression while completing his degree, he expresses eagerness to delve deeper into the rapidly transforming sphere of technology policy.
“The swift advancements in technology render this an exhilarating period for policy,” he emphasizes.
The real opportunity lies in ensuring innovation benefits the public, with policy designed to facilitate, rather than hinder, that progress.
McCourt has equipped me with the analytical foundation to engage critically with these changes and the policy perspective necessary to ensure they serve the public good.
Source link: Mccourt.georgetown.edu.
