This colloquium is designed for PhD students at the LBJ School. The colloquium will focus on professional development and training, including how to navigate both academic and policy fields in public affairs. The course will consist of a classroom seminar where we will discuss matters including (but not exclusive to) how to conduct and present policy -oriented research, how to navigate academia, how to start publishing, how to engage in professional networking, leadership in public policy, and preparing for the job market. We will host a number of speakers who will provide research talks. Students will moderate these sessions and serve as discussants. In addition to attending the colloquium, students will also be required to complete small professional development assignments and engage in peer review exercises.