Sammy Flitton graduated from the University of Utah in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in International Studies and a minor in Italian. His academic focus on international policy, transatlantic relations, and governance closely aligned with the hands-on opportunities he pursued through the Hinckley Institute of Politics, shaped both his undergraduate experience and his professional path.

During his time at the university, Flitton participated in several internships and academic programs through Hinckley that provided real-world experiences in policy and government. He completed a national internship with the United States Senate and later an international internship with a Member of Parliament in the Parliament of the United Kingdom. He also worked with the Transatlantic Policy Network, a Brussels based think tank focused on strengthening U.S. and EU relations.

In addition to these internships, Flitton took several Hinckley courses, including the Hinckley Campaign Class, Advanced Writing, and the John Price International Think Tank course. These classes emphasized practical political analysis, policy writing, and campaign and policy strategy. Flitton also served on the editorial board of the Hinckley Journal of Politics and later published an article in the journal titled “Water Haircuts: A Solution to Drought or an Empty Cup Policy? A Look at the Utah State Engineer’s Internal Haircut Policy and Proposals to Strengthen Utah’s Prior Appropriation System.”

Flitton credits his Hinckley experiences with transforming his undergraduate education. Through a combination of internships, coursework, and research opportunities, he gained firsthand insight into how policy and politics operate in real institutions both domestic and international. Just as important were the relationships he developed with mentors, colleagues, and friends who shared his interest in public service and public policy. These academic, professional, and personal experiences helped shape his future goals and career trajectory.

One of Flitton’s favorite Hinckley memories was his internship with the Transatlantic Policy Network in Brussels. During his time there, he attended weekly dinners where high-ranking U.S. and European officials gathered to discuss major issues affecting the transatlantic relationship. Listening to these conversations and learning directly from experienced policymakers provided a unique perspective on international diplomacy and policy making. For Flitton, it was an experience that demonstrated how the Hinckley Institute places students in remarkable professional environments.

Flitton notes that his time at Hinckley directly influenced his decision to pursue graduate study and a legal career. After graduating from the University of Utah, he went on to pursue graduate study at University of Oxford and later worked on Capitol Hill focusing on foreign affairs policy. The exposure, mentorship, and professional connections he developed through the Hinckley Institute helped open doors to these opportunities and guided his long-term career path.

Today, Flitton works as an attorney at Dorsey & Whitney LLP, where he advises corporate clients on regulatory and corporate matters and assists companies with government affairs projects. Licensed to practice law in both Utah and Washington, D.C., he regularly travels to the nation’s capital for his work. Flitton reflects that the preparation and opportunities he received through the Hinckley Institute continue to shape his career and enable him to help clients navigate complex regulatory and policy challenges.