Julia Zheng
Senior Law and Policy Analyst
Phone: 646-255-9144
Email: julia.zheng@umaryland.edu
Areas of Expertise: Community Resilience | Continuity of Operations (COOP) | Emergency Management | Public Health Preparedness
Education: J.D., 2021, University of Baltimore School of Law | B.A. in Political Science, 2018, Washington College
About Julia
I initially thought I wanted to become an attorney and practice law, but during law school, I realized the traditional legal path wasn’t the right fit for me. I found myself more drawn to the intersection of law, policy, and public service, where I could use my skills in critical thinking, legal analysis, and advocacy to help shape systems and improve outcomes on a broader scale. When I came across an opening at CHHS, I quickly realized it was exactly the kind of work I had been looking for—and I haven’t looked back since. One of the most impactful projects I’ve worked on at CHHS was during the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic, when I had the opportunity to support local jurisdictions in strengthening their preparedness and resilience. Helping communities update their Emergency Operations Plans and develop After Action Reports was incredibly rewarding, especially as they transitioned from immediate response to long-term recovery and planning. I love working at CHHS because it’s not a traditional office environment—it’s an innovative, forward-thinking organization where people from diverse backgrounds come together to do meaningful work. Being part of a team that values collaboration and intellectual curiosity has allowed me to apply my skills in impactful ways while continuing to grow in a field I’m passionate about.
What is your working style?
My working style is collaborative and grounded in mutual respect. I believe that effective teamwork thrives in environments where diverse perspectives are welcomed and every team member feels valued.
What advice would you give to someone starting in your field?
It is okay to pivot from what you originally thought you were going to do. You may discover new areas that you are passionate about, and those opportunities often arise in unexpected ways. Do not be afraid to take on a variety of projects – each one is a chance to learn more about your interests, develop new skills, and find the right path forward in your career.
What's your favorite quote or motto?
My favorite motto is, "you never know until you try." It is a simple reminder to stay open to new opportunities and to not let fear of failure hold you back. Some of the most meaningful experiences in my career have come from taking a chance on something unfamiliar.
