In this episode of the Peacebuilder Podcast, host Diego Crespo sits down with Amy Knorr, Peacebuilding Practice Director at the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding (CJP), to explore how students move from learning about peacebuilding to actively practicing it in the real world.
Amy shares her role in guiding students through practicum experiences, helping them identify their passions, connect with organizations, and engage in reflective practice that deepens both personal growth and professional skills. From facilitating real-world projects with community partners to supporting students through trial, error, and discovery, her work centers on bridging classroom learning with meaningful action.
The conversation highlights the importance of creating your own path in peacebuilding. Amy encourages students to “create your own world” by designing practicums that align with their interests, whether that means working locally with organizations like refugee resettlement agencies and community centers, or pursuing international opportunities that can be transformative and life-changing.
She also reflects on her own journey, from working in conflict resolution and public policy to finding her place at CJP, and emphasizes the value of community, networks, and continuous self-reflection in navigating the peacebuilding field.
At its core, this episode is about practice: learning by doing, growing through reflection, and stepping into the world with intention, curiosity, and care.