SCG Perspective: Sam Nursall (University of Michigan '21) on Gen Z's Political Efficacy

As I complete my tenure as an SCG intern, I look back fondly on a successful summer. I’ve had the opportunity to assist with various public relations work, dipping my toes into such industries as property development, mental health care, and labor relations to name a few. However different, SCG’s work in these fields have one common thread: Los Angeles.

Through this internship, I’ve gotten a taste of the true scale of Los Angeles. Growing up in Thousand Oaks I never quite internalized the complex, often daunting problems facing the city. But over the past ten weeks, issues such as homelessness, public transportation, and development were at the forefront of my work and thinking. I’ve had plenty of food for thought for my commute!

However, the most memorable lesson from my time at SCG is the importance of political efficacy. In the social media age, it’s very easy to ingest news from Twitter, or not at all (my fellow Gen Z-ers and I may be especially guilty here). This summer, I’ve understood the power of staying informed. Habits as simple as reading the news every day for 30 minutes make the intricate issues of L.A. and beyond far more palatable. I truly think most of my peers would be shocked at their potential to impact local public affairs. Town halls, public hearings, and, of course, the polls are powerful tools for an informed citizen of democracy. Efficacy leads to action, and in the future, a greater Los Angeles.