Hailing from Powhattan, Virginia, Nikki Kain joined UVA Batten in 2022 after completing her undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and Teaching and her Master of Education in Education Literacy from Longwood University. She also worked within the Farmville community and served as the Volunteer Director of the Virginia Children’s Book Festival. Following her graduation from the UVA Batten Master of Public Policy program in 2024, she took on the role of assistant director of programming at UVA’s Karsh Institute of Democracy, where she says one of the most rewarding parts of the job is continuing to work with Batten students. Get to know more about Nikki below!
Q. Why did you choose UVA Batten?
A. So many reasons, but primarily, the people. Not only are the faculty and staff truly brilliant experts, they’re also deeply kind and invested in student success.
Q. How would you describe the UVA Batten community?
A. UVA Batten fosters a shared commitment to serving others through excellence.
Q. How were you able to explore your policy interests while at UVA Batten?
A. While at UVA Batten, I was able to explore my interests in education policy, higher education and information systems through my coursework and Applied Policy Project; having the flexibility to center my coursework around my interests was fantastic. I was also able to intern with the Karsh Institute of Democracy, where I currently work.
Q. What’s one way the MPP helped you grow personally or professionally?
A. UVA Batten’s quantitative coursework pushed me to see the world differently than I had previously, now seeking to prove myself wrong instead of right. It also challenged me in ways I hadn’t previously been challenged, enabling me to explore new ways of thinking and learning.
Q. What course or academic experience was a highlight of your time at UVA Batten?
A. I particularly enjoyed Psychology for Leadership because it spans across literally everything I do. Prof. Converse is amazing, and the topics covered helped me better understand humans.
Q. Beyond academics, what are some other memories that stand out from your time at UVA Batten?
A. Several come to mind, including cramming (for exams) at Garrett Hall, volunteering at Ivy Creek on MLK Day and the people!
Q. What piece of advice would you give to a student considering Batten?
A. Talk to Jeff Chidester in Admissions and talk to current students. We’re not here to convince you that this is the place for you – we’re here to help you explore whether this community of excellence makes sense for you.
