Think tank
Public Policy Think Tank
Overview:
Starting your own Public Policy Think Tank is a powerful way to explore public policy issues in depth, especially in areas that align with your academic interests such as Philosophy, Law, Politics, and Economics. Think tanks are research organizations that focus on analyzing issues and providing policy solutions. They play a crucial role in shaping political discourse, informing government decisions, and advising on issues such as economic policy, legal reforms, or public health.
For a school-based think tank, you could start by focusing on local, national, or global issues that are relevant to your studies and areas of interest. You would gather research, analyze data, and offer policy recommendations that can make a tangible impact on the school, community, or broader society.
Why It’s Good for You:
Develops Critical Research and Analytical Skills: Creating a think tank helps you hone your ability to research and analyze complex political, social, or economic issues—skills directly relevant to Consulting, Public Policy, Law, and Philosophy.
Boosts University Applications: Think tanks are highly regarded by top universities like Oxbridge, LSE, and the Ivy League. Establishing or being part of a think tank demonstrates leadership, initiative, and the ability to engage in rigorous intellectual activities—qualities highly valued in academic settings.
Engages with Real-World Issues: You'll be working on issues that could affect real policy decisions, helping you gain a deeper understanding of how policy decisions are made and how different sectors (government, business, etc.) interact.
Demonstrates Public Service and Social Impact: Think tanks aim to make a difference in society by tackling real problems. This is an excellent way to show that you're committed to using your skills for positive social impact—an asset for applications to top universities and future employers.
How to Proceed:
Define the Purpose and Focus Areas:
What Issue Will Your Think Tank Address? Decide on the area of public policy you want to focus on. You could cover topics like:
Climate change policy and environmental sustainability.
Economic reforms (e.g., tax systems, housing policies).
Global health crises (e.g., pandemic preparedness and management).
Criminal justice reform and legal policies.
Education policy (e.g., improving public education systems, tackling inequalities).
Choose areas that align with your A-Level subjects such as Philosophy, Government and Politics, and Geography.
Research and Gather Data:
Start with a literature review to gather existing research on the issue you're focusing on. This could include academic articles, government reports, think tank publications, and news reports.
Conduct surveys or interviews with teachers, students, or experts to gather new insights into the issues you're researching.
Leverage online databases like Google Scholar, JSTOR, or The Guardian’s data section for relevant statistics and research.
Collaborate with Peers:
Partner with other like-minded students from your school who have an interest in politics, law, or economics. Divide the research into sections (e.g., policy analysis, data gathering, report writing).
Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, as a team with diverse academic backgrounds will bring multiple perspectives to the table.
Write Policy Briefs and Reports:
Create policy briefs that outline the problem, proposed solutions, and a plan for action. Keep the briefs clear, concise, and accessible to a wider audience (especially policymakers, school leaders, or community stakeholders).
These reports should include:
A problem statement outlining the issue.
Policy analysis with supporting data and evidence.
Recommendations for action.
Potential impacts of the policy changes.
Distribute Findings and Recommendations:
Present your findings and recommendations in a formal presentation at school or to a local government body. You could even organize a public policy forum to engage with local policymakers or community leaders.
Publish your reports and policy recommendations in a school newsletter, local newspapers, or on a websitededicated to your think tank.
Share your findings with online platforms like Medium, LinkedIn, or Twitter for broader outreach.
Create a Website or Social Media Presence:
Develop a simple website or blog to showcase your think tank's research, reports, and recommendations. Tools like WordPress, Wix, or Google Sites can help you build a professional-looking site.
Use social media (LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram) to share articles, host debates, and raise awareness on your research topics. This will also help you engage a broader audience and connect with policy influencers.
Engage with Mentors and Experts:
Reach out to teachers, university professors, or even local government officials to serve as mentors or advisors for your think tank. Their expertise will help you refine your work and make your think tank more credible.
Attend conferences or seminars (many are free for students) on public policy issues to deepen your understanding and expand your network.
Focus on Real-World Impact:
Strive for tangible impact. For example, if your think tank is focusing on educational policies, you might influence school reforms, or if it's on climate change, your suggestions could contribute to local sustainability initiatives.
Present your work to relevant local authorities or student bodies to create change within your school, community, or even at the national level.
Best Year to Start:
Year 12: Starting in Year 12 allows you ample time to lay the foundation for the think tank and build a comprehensive portfolio. Since you'll still be in the early stages of your A-Levels, you can focus on research and analysis without the pressure of impending exams. This year is also a good time to develop collaborations and partnerships with other students and teachers.
Year 13: If you want to make the think tank a major project, starting it in Year 13 will allow you to leverage all of your knowledge and research skills. However, this can be challenging due to the heavy workload in Year 13, so it's advisable to start small and gradually expand your reach.
How to Achieve It:
Create a Team: Reach out to classmates, friends, or other students interested in public policy. Form a team that can handle different aspects of the think tank, such as research, writing, and outreach.
Define Your Policy Area: Choose a policy area that resonates with your interests and the current societal issues. It should also relate to your A-Level subjects, so you can make use of what you're learning.
Research: Use resources like government publications, research papers, and think tank websites (such as the Institute for Fiscal Studies, Chatham House, or The Brookings Institution) to collect data and learn from established organizations.
Write Reports: Structure your reports professionally. Your writing should be clear and well-supported by data. You can always use tools like Google Scholar for credible academic sources.
Market and Promote: Use social media platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter to promote your research and reports. Create a website or blog to house your reports.
How It Enhances Your University Application:
Oxford & Cambridge: A think tank demonstrates high-level intellectual engagement and the ability to solve complex real-world problems. This is especially relevant for PPE, Law, and Philosophy programs at Oxbridge.
LSE: A think tank directly aligns with LSE's focus on social sciences, policy, and global issues. LSE appreciates students with a strong commitment to policy change and leadership in addressing global challenges.
Ivy League: A think tank will make your application stand out by showcasing leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to public service. Institutions like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton value students who make a real-world impact, especially in areas like public policy and social issues.