From Classroom to Capitol Hill: Nistler Graduate Students Experience Business & Government in Action

Graduate students from the University of North Dakota’s Nistler College of Business & Public Administration took their learning to Washington, D.C., for an immersive, hands-on experience through the Business & Government Symposium.

Designed to connect classroom concepts with real-world application, the symposium brought together students from accountancy, business administration, and public administration for a fast-paced, five-day experience engaging directly with policymakers, industry leaders, and UND alumni working at the highest levels.

A Signature Experiential Learning Opportunity

First introduced in 2003, the Business & Government Symposium has become a cornerstone experience within Nistler College. The course focuses on the relationship between business and government, giving students a deeper understanding of how policy, regulation, and industry intersect in today’s global economy.

What began as a short seminar has evolved into a full-scale immersion, with students traveling across Washington, D.C., throughout the week, stepping into the spaces where decisions are made and gaining exposure that extends far beyond a traditional classroom setting.

Learning Through Access and Connection

A defining aspect of the symposium is the level of access students receive. Through strong alumni connections and North Dakota’s close-knit network, students met with professionals across government agencies, corporate offices, and consulting firms.

Throughout the week, students engaged in meaningful conversations with UND alumni who shared their career paths, offered advice, and provided insight into navigating careers at the intersection of business and public service.

The experience highlighted just how far a UND degree can reach, with alumni making an impact across industries and organizations throughout Washington.

Real-World Insight Across Industries

From corporate headquarters to Capitol Hill, students explored a wide range of topics, including tax policy, regulatory oversight, government relations, and national security.

Meetings with professionals in both the public and private sectors gave students a clearer understanding of how decisions are shaped, implemented, and influenced at a national level.

These experiences allowed students to see firsthand how their academic work translates into real-world impact, reinforcing the value of their education and future career paths.

A Lasting Impact

Beyond the meetings and site visits, the symposium created opportunities for students to build confidence, expand their professional networks, and gain a stronger sense of direction for their careers.

The combination of academic learning, professional exposure, and alumni engagement made the experience both impactful and memorable.

For many students, the trip reinforced the idea that opportunities are not limited by location—and that a UND education can open doors across the country and beyond.

Thank You

The Nistler College of Business & Public Administration extends its appreciation to the faculty leaders, alumni, and industry professionals who contributed their time and insight to make this experience possible.

Through their continued support, the Business & Government Symposium remains a transformative opportunity for graduate students—bringing learning to life in one of the most influential cities in the world.