Justin Martin, a business owner and lobbyist, is a proud Western Oregon University alumnus who received his bachelor’s in public policy and administration from the university. During his time at Western, Martin participated in internships that solidified his interest in government work, whether at the state, local, or tribal level. These experiences helped him realize that majoring in public policy and administration was the right choice for him.
After graduation, Martin was well-prepared for his career thanks to the practical experience he gained through internships while at Western. As a non-traditional student who entered college after working in the workforce, Martin appreciated the guidance he received at Western, which helped him focus on his passion. The flexibility of the curriculum at Western allowed him to succeed in his chosen career path.
Martin has been advocating for his tribe, The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, for the past 28 years, using the skills and knowledge he gained at Western to excel in his career. In addition to his lobbying work, Martin also owns a vintage guitar store called Guitar Castle in Salem. Despite the store being music-related and not government-related, Martin has been able to apply what he learned in college to enhance his business operations.
Western Oregon University is located in Monmouth and founded in 1856, making it Oregon’s oldest public university. With approximately 4,000 students enrolled on campus as an NCAA Division II institution with more than half of its students coming from Oregon state residents. What sets Western apart is its diverse student body that includes individuals from different backgrounds such as veterans and non-traditional learners. The university prides itself on being student-focused with faculty-led instruction making it an excellent choice for those seeking an enriching education.
In conclusion, Justin Martin’s experience at Western Oregon University played a significant role in shaping his career path as a business owner and lobbyist. The practical experience gained through internships combined with guidance provided by professors allowed him to pursue his passion while remaining flexible enough to adapt into different fields of interests.
Additionally, Western’s commitment to diversity has created an environment where everyone feels welcome regardless of their background or age group. Its student-centered approach with faculty-led instruction makes it stand out among other institutions offering higher education opportunities.
Overall, Justin’s story highlights how important it is for students to choose schools that align with their passions while providing them with practical experience and resources needed for success after graduation.