Scholarship Helps Julianna Caskie Complete Political Science Degree with Purpose

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Julianna Caskie plans to pursue a career in public policy research after graduating with her master’s in political science from American University in May. She is one of 290 General Board of Higher Education and Ministry scholarship recipients who graduated this spring and credits financial support from The United Methodist Church with her academic success.

“The provision of this scholarship allowed me to truly focus on my studies and not be as concerned with loans and getting by in the day-to-day,” said Caskie, a member of the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference. “I was able to graduate from American University with a stellar GPA because I could dedicate my time to my coursework.”

Caskie hopes to pursue a career in public policy research, aiming to help shape evidence-based policies that serve the most vulnerable. While her next steps are still unfolding, she’s focused on working at a think tank or nonprofit advocacy organization.

Thanks to her GBHEM scholarship, Caskie was also able to participate in an experiential learning program that took her to Brussels for a weeklong immersion in European policy systems — an experience she said would have been out of reach without donor support. “If I had not had the support of the donors, it would have been difficult if not impossible for me to attend this program,” she said.

Caskie finds joy in serving her community, including helping with Wesley UMC’s “We Got Your Back Backpack Festival,” which provides school supplies and services to local children and families.

“I’ve always enjoyed learning,” she said. “College, and later graduate school, gave me the opportunity to learn about many different subjects and understand the way the political system works. I’m grateful for the chance to keep learning and now, hopefully, to give back.”