Discussion: University's Role in Your Professional and Academic Goals As a doctoral student in the Public Policy and Administration program, your professional goals may include facilitating social change on a local, regional, or even global scale. One of Walden University''s goals is to help its students realize their own unique visions for social change.

One of the first steps toward realizing your vision is articulating that vision. Understanding how Walden University and the activities you complete on your Walden journey relate to your long-term goal may help you achieve your goal of being a successful Walden candidate. For these reasons, this Discussion asks you to share with your peers your vision for social change as well as how you believe Walden''s vision and mission and your upcoming attendance at academic residency relate to your personal goal.

You may be inspired by the visions of your colleagues or of the students in the Scholars of Change videos (found under Optional Resources in this week''s Learning Resources) who have begun to realize their visions for social change.

To prepare:

Review the mission and vision statements for Walden University and the School of Public Policy and Administration ("About the School") found in this week''s Learning Resources.

Reflect on your professional and academic goals as they relate to your program and specialization.

Think about how your academic and professional goals reflect a commitment to social change.

Consider how your attendance at academic residencies will aid you in achieving your personal and professional goals.