9 Ways to Invest in Your Professional Development

1. Specialize 
Whether you want to fundraise, communicate, or write better, now’s the time to start. AF has programs to help you improve on your passion; by networking with peers, learning from experts, and practicing skills.

2. Find a Mentor

Everyone needs a mentor. Both seeking guidance and giving back is important throughout your career. Some mentor relationships happen organically. Others grow out of formal programs, like AFF’s Members’ Mentor Program starting this February.

3. Attend a Conference
Student conferences offer opportunities for all participants. From students to think tank CEOs; everyone can benefit from going. Your first big chance this year is ISFLC in February!

4. Learn More (wherever you are)
Liberty and learning go hand in hand. That’s why our friends at FEE, IHS, and Mercatus Center have online educational resources. Refresh your econ knowledge or dive into the depths of classical liberal philosophy — it’s all there.

5. Build your Network
There’s no one way to network. Consider attending unconventional events or join another professional development organization, like Liberty Toastmasters.

6. Get others to invest in you
If you’re still testing the waters of the “real” world, why not get paid to do it? Charles Koch Institute, Leadership Institute, and Praxis all offer unique paid learning opportunities. Or take the next step and find a full-time job here.

7. Attend an immersive seminar
Retreat from life’s normal hustle and bustle with an immersive seminar. Groups like Foundation for Economic Education(FEE) and IHS offer the unique chance to travel and delve deeply into a topic. Who knows, it could really change your perspective.

8. Get published
Cash in on resources like AFF’s Writing Program or SFL’s Young Voices Advocates. If you’re reading this, you likely have a few strong opinions. Sharing them with the world is good practice and could even become a lucrative side gig.

9. Have fun
Last piece of shameless self-promotion, we promise. Mark your calendars for AFF’s Annual Gala on May 26th! Events like this are a great way to break out of the normal cycle of DC events. PS it is the only gala in the DC area solely devoted to young professionals.