“I have a long-term goal of creating an equitable education system, this was the most valuable thing I could’ve learned.”
– Antonia Babson
Co-op Term: Spring 2026
Position: Policy and Communications co-op
Employer: Boston After School and Beyond
Boston After School & Beyond is a public-private partnership supporting a network of more than 500 out-of-school time programs. Antonia researched and wrote policy briefs, including on the new Federal Tax Credit for Education, and presented her findings to the Governor’s office and the Board of Directors. She handled legislative outreach and advocacy for the state budget, built a legislative directory for partner organizations, and helped arrange site visits with legislators. She also ran the organization’s social media and website and planned weekly professional development calls for the network.
Antonia learned how closely policy is tied to available funding. She developed skills in policy research, presenting complex information clearly to leadership, and building relationships with legislators and partner organizations. Her course work helped her understand nonprofit funding and structure, and connected to the measurement work the organization does.
Antonia came away with a new view of education, realizing it matters well beyond the classroom. Through the organization’s measurement work, she saw how after-school and summer learning supports a child’s social-emotional growth and career readiness. This strengthened her long-term goal of building a more equitable education system, and she now plans to continue in the field of education.
