Recommendation Policy

I am writing to express my support for Julie Platt to intern in Congressman office this summer. I think very highly of Julie. Her academic success in the dual Public Health and Social Work Master’s program, coupled with her extensive fieldwork experience, has prepared her well for this position.

 

Julie and I first worked together in September 2015 when she started attending the Homicide Review meetings as part of the Violence Prevention Initiative at the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health. This program is dedicated to addressing community violence in Allegheny County through a public health prevention framework.  At the meetings, Julie demonstrated a keen awareness of the everyday challenges young men in Pittsburgh face and was skilled in connecting with community partners. She always came to the meetings prepared to learn and contribute.

 

During her second year, Julie began interning at the Violence Prevention Initiative under my supervision. Julie noticed that mistrusts between the police and communities of color were thwarting community safety initiatives.  Due to her past work in Sports for Development, she decided to use basketball as a mechanism through which youth and police officers could connect and work together. Through this project, Julie demonstrated a unique ability to communicate with policymakers and community leaders while continuing to advocate for young men of color.  She skillfully navigated these situations with poise and confidence.

 

Throughout the semester, Julie developed a deep passion for social justice, politics, and civic engagement. She consistently stays current on policies and legislation that affect vulnerable populations in Pittsburgh and is dedicated to advocating on their behalf. For example, after the November election, she would often produce informative flyers regarding the impact of repealing the Affordable Care Act. Her efforts reflect her determination, strong work ethic, and moral compass.

 

Julie would make a fine advocate and champion in your district office. She is adept at working with people to solve the problems of daily life for those who have the greatest health and social needs. She will be able to assist your staff on addressing the needs of constituents and also contribute to broader projects in Pittsburgh or Washington, D.C. I believe she will both contribute to and benefit from the opportunity to work with Congressman and his staff.

 

Julie is personable, professional, and productive. I cannot recommend her more highly. Her passion is contagious and will inspire others in the office.

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