GVPT Student Simone Flynn Reflects on Leadership, Mentorship, and a Purpose-Driven Journey

As she prepares to graduate from the University of Maryland, Simone Flynn reflects on a college journey shaped by bold leadership, deep community involvement, and a clear-eyed vision for the future.

A senior in the Department of Government and Politics (GVPT), Simone arrived at UMD knowing exactly where she wanted to be. “I was always interested in government, law, and policy,” she said. “GVPT stood out to me because of the professors and the opportunities they make available.”

That early certainty evolved into a dynamic and impactful undergraduate career in and out of the classroom. Simone serves as Vice Chair of Academics on the BSOS Dean’s Student Advisory Council (DSAC), where she represents GVPT students and has led efforts to expand access to pre-law resources. Recognizing a gap in pre-law programming within the department, she spearheaded a student-led law lecture series, creating new opportunities for GVPT students to explore careers in law and legal policy.

Simone also plays a key role in UMD’s Student Government Association, serving as Chief Justice of the Governance Board. In this role, she works on election cases and ethical oversight—experiences that have strengthened her interest in legal processes and public accountability.

Her internship experiences reflect a deep commitment to public service and community impact. She worked as a student assistant in the main GVPT office, interned for Congressman Glenn Ivey, who launched this year’s GVPT Capitol Hill Lecture Series, and held multiple internships with the Anne Arundel County Executive’s Office, where she supported the development of a nonprofit resource center.

Simone’s path has not been without challenges, especially in balancing rigorous coursework with the pressure of preparing for the LSAT during her senior year. “I struggled with the decision to take a gap year,” she shared. “But the mentorship from my professors helped me realize that taking time before law school is common and often necessary. That advice lifted a weight off my shoulders.”

One of the most formative aspects of Simone’s academic journey has been the mentorship and support she found within GVPT. “My professors care,” she said. “They push you but also make space for you to be heard.” She highlighted the impact of GVPT Associate Professor Chryl Laird, whose courses—GVPT479W: Women of Color in Politics and GVPT479B: Black Politics—gave her the space to explore her identity and passions as a Black woman in politics.

Those experiences led Simone to develop a research project on Black maternal mortality, an issue she feels deeply connected to. “The U.S. has one of the highest maternal mortality rates, and Black women are disproportionately affected,” she said. “Focusing on issues that impact my community has been empowering.”

After graduation, Simone plans to continue studying for the LSAT and is exploring opportunities to intern at a law office. “Getting closer to the work—seeing what it means to practice law—will be an important step,” she said.

When asked what advice she’d offer incoming students, her message was simple but powerful: “Be open. Take classes you’re interested in. Get involved around campus. There’s so much here, don’t be afraid to explore it.”

Published: May 20, 2025

Published on Tue, 05/20/2025 - 12:31