Finding purpose beyond the trailhead
Alexandra Wienckowski combined environmental studies and public policy to launch a path toward public service.
When Alexandra Wienckowski, a 2021 graduate, moved from Montana to Washington in 2018, she was chasing something bigger: the chance to grow, explore new ideas and create a better life for her young son. She began at Shoreline Community College and later transferred to the University of Washington Bothell, where she found a supportive environment that helped her redefine what was possible.
“I’ve always loved the outdoors,” she said. “I thought I’d build a career in environmental studies, but once I started studying public policy, it opened up a completely different path — one that could make an even bigger impact.”
A pivotal academic shift
At UW Bothell, Wienckowski majored in Environmental Studies with a minor in Restoration Ecology. But a conversation with an academic adviser changed the trajectory of her education and her life.
“She told me I could double major without adding a ton of extra time,” she said. “Once I enrolled in a politics class, everything clicked. I saw how systems, laws and leadership shape the environment, education, housing — everything.”
That realization led her to add a second major in Law, Economics & Public Policy, creating an interdisciplinary foundation that prepared her for real-world impact.
The turning point came through an internship at the Washington State House of Representatives. Wienckowski first heard about the program in a class taught by Dr. Amy Lambert, associate teaching professor in the School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences. She followed up through UW Bothell’s Career Services with assistance from Ryan McIrvin, the University’s director of government & community relations.
Turning opportunity into action
“I didn’t even know jobs like that existed,” Wienckowski said. “That experience gave me insight into how government really works and helped me see where I could fit in.”
The internship opened new doors, too. Through the experience, she built strong professional connections that led to further work in Olympia after graduation, including time with the office of Rep. Greg Cheney.
“I considered all kinds of roles,” she said. “Policy research, legislative assistant, executive assistant — anything that would help me get my foot in the door and keep growing.”
As a single mom balancing classes, parenting and part-time work, Wienckowski said the UW Bothell Alumni Scholarship was critical to her success as well.
“I could not have completed the internship or a study abroad program without that scholarship,” she said. “It helped cover the things that add up — books, fees, housing — and gave me the freedom to focus on being a student and a mom.”
Looking ahead to a life of service
With support from scholarship funding, Wienckowski joined a study abroad program in Thailand and Cambodia. The experience expanded her perspective and reinforced her commitment to equity, sustainability and community.
“I became a global ambassador for study abroad because I wanted other students — especially nontraditional students like me — to know what’s possible,” she said. “That trip changed everything for me.”
Wienckowski continues to explore her path in public service, with an eye toward legislative work and community impact. She is energized by the possibility of working directly with people and using policy to address systemic challenges.
“Public service is about fixing problems on multiple levels and understanding where people come from. That’s how we make meaningful change.”
“To me, public service is about fixing problems on multiple levels and understanding where people come from,” she said. “That’s how we make meaningful change.”
Longer term, she said she hopes to continue gaining experience in government and one day run for public office.
Advice for the next generation
Wienckowski’s path hasn’t been easy, but it’s been deeply meaningful. And she has a message for current students thinking about a future in service.
“There were times I wanted to quit because it would have been easier,” she said. “But I didn’t want to live with regret. You’re more capable than you know, and there’s support out there. When you reach the other side of the tunnel, it’s worth every step.”
Help more students like Alexandra thrive: Your support of the UW Bothell Alumni Scholarship Fund opens doors to transformative opportunities — from internships and study abroad to careers in public service. Every gift helps students overcome financial barriers and pursue what’s possible. Give now to make an immediate impact.