Harry Barthelemy is a second-year grad student studying criminal justice at Wichita State. Barthelemy’s college experience has been greatly enhanced by his internship at the Wichita City Council.

Barthelemy, was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. His connection to government began at an early age with his father serving as the chief of security for the Haitian president. Barthelemy’s father had to flee to South Africa after a coup in 2004. This had a big impact on Barthelemy’s childhood and his desire to go into politics.

Barthelemy dreams of serving as either the president of Haiti or the Haitian U.S. Ambassador. He says he feels called to politics because he wants to be a servant leader. He's passionate about devoting his time and energy to the good of the Haitian people.

Through his applied learning experiences, Barthelemy has had the opportunity to work with Councilman Brandon Johnson, Mayor Brandon Whipple and Senator Deltha Faust-Goudeau. Barthelemy says of these experiences, “The impact that applied learning has had on me has been simply amazing. It’s opened so many doors and connections.”

Barthelemy considers himself fortunate to observe and gain insights from these three politicians, acquiring knowledge about the functioning of local, state, and federal governments. He regularly attends city council meetings and reflects, “Being around politicians it’s not about the legislation. It’s more so about being a servant leader to the people and learning how to be a leader properly. I saw all the ups and downs and the importance of having a connection with citizens as well.”

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Wichita State's applied learning program gives students hands-on, paid experience with industry partners, helping them build careers before graduation.

For more information, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at (316) 978-3688, SCA@wichita.edu, or visit wichita.edu/Career. You can also stop by in person at the Marcus Welcome Center, Suite 139, on the Wichita State campus.