Mentorship is a cornerstone of the LBJ School experience, and for Sara Engelhard (MGPS ’24), it proved to be one of the most transformative aspects of her time there. As a Master of Global Policy Studies student, Engelhard was guided by a network of supportive and influential professors who helped shape her academic path and launch her career. Faculty members provided meaningful insights into public policy and connected her to real-world opportunities, demonstrating the LBJ School’s commitment to fostering intellectual growth and professional success.
Faculty members like Jeremi Suri, Lorinc Redei, Erin Lentz and Kate Weaver were instrumental in guiding Engelhard's development. Through their mentorship, she gained critical analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of policymaking. This guidance didn’t just enhance her classroom learning—it directly influenced her career trajectory, eventually leading to her role as a legislative assistant in Congressman Lloyd Doggett’s office. That opportunity arose thanks to a key recommendation from one of her most influential mentors, Professor Suri.
Engelhard was drawn to the LBJ School for its top-tier reputation, affordability and location in the vibrant city of Austin. After years of East Coast winters, she was ready for a change in environment and a fresh perspective on U.S. foreign policy. She wanted to explore how conversations on U.S. foreign policy might differ in Texas rather than in New York City or Washington, DC.
At LBJ, Engelhard quickly became immersed in a challenging and transformative learning experience. Professors like Suri, Redei and Lentz made a lasting impact.
“There are truly so many professors, courses and experiences at LBJ that significantly influenced my approach to public policy and my personal and professional development.”
Redei’s course on international systems taught her to analyze political viewpoints from multiple perspectives, a skill she uses constantly in her current role. Lentz provided insight into the complexities of policymaking in global development and humanitarian spaces, where decisions are rarely straightforward.
In her day-to-day work on Capitol Hill, Engelhard writes extensively—drafting memos, policy briefs and reports that need to be both clear and concise. She credits the Writing for Global Policy class with helping her master the art of the “BLUF” (Bottom Line Up Front)—a strategy she uses in every piece she writes. "Your principal doesn’t have time to read a long-winded explanation," she noted.
Other LBJ lessons have proven equally valuable. Will Inboden’s Ethics in International Affairs class taught her that personal history often influences policy decisions, something she’s seen firsthand in the policymaking process. While Larry Andre’s insights into the political dynamics within the U.S. government—the competition for credit and the internal disagreements—have rung true in her own experience working in Congress.
Through all the challenges and pressures of her role, Engelhard’s time at the LBJ School remains a guiding force. The mentorship, rigorous courses and real-world lessons she gained at LBJ have prepared her to navigate the complexities of U.S. foreign policy with confidence and strategic insight.
Engelhard advises current students seeking mentorship to thoroughly research faculty whose work aligns with their goals and approach them with thoughtful, specific questions. “Choose faculty whose careers you admire, and don’t be afraid to reach out—it’s their job!” she emphasizes. For those interested in Capitol Hill, she recommends doing the same with Members of Congress, contacting their staff via LinkedIn or email, and clearly explaining why you're interested in that office. Building these connections can be key to finding the right opportunities.
Learn more about the Master of Global Policy Studies degree and meet the LBJ School’s world-renowned faculty. Apply by December 1 for priority funding.