April 22, 2025
At the end of March, the current cohort from the Policy and Research Legislative Fellows (PRLF) program visited Springfield to broaden their understanding of the policymaking process in Illinois. The trip served as a bridge between the research they have been conducting throughout the year and the legislative work that takes place in the state’s capital.
The visit gave PRLF fellows a chance to explore where policy ideas come to life. They were joined by scholars from the Illinois Extension’s Illini State Policy Program (ISPP) for a day of learning, networking, and exploration. The group met with staff from Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton’s Office, toured the Illinois State Capitol building, and heard about Springfield’s rich political and cultural history.
Minjoo Chong, a doctoral student in Education, Policy, Organization, and Leadership, currently placed with Senator Paul Faraci, shared her perspective on the experience. “Before the visit, I often saw policymaking as a slow and uncertain process. As a policy fellow, the distance between policy ideas and implementation sometimes felt discouraging. But being in Springfield, the very space where policies are debated and enacted, reignited my motivation. Walking through the Capitol and meeting with state officials gave shape to what had previously felt abstract, and reminded me that research contributes to a living, dynamic process.”
“One of the most meaningful moments for me was connecting with other young scholars. Sharing various works allowed me to uncover unexpected connections across policy areas, and those conversations helped me see my research in new ways,” she stated.
For many fellows, this was their first time seeing the Illinois State Capitol in person. While some have spent time in Springfield as part of their placements, others have worked primarily in district offices. This trip ensured that every fellow had the opportunity to connect with the heart of state government, providing depth and context for how their research can inform policy. This experience is a core milestone in the PRLF journey, translating policy research from an academic exercise into tangible and dynamic results.