• How did you select your graduate school and how did it prepare you for your career?
• Work or internship experience during graduate school
• What was the most important or useful course you took in the MPA/MPP?
• Were you a Presidential Management Intern?
• What has been your career path since graduating? What do you want to be doing in 5 years?
• What is the most exciting and/or interesting aspect of your current job?
• Do you feel your MPA/MPP is helping you to “make a difference?” How?
• What advice, if any, would you give to an undergraduate thinking about going for an MPA/MPP?

How did you select your graduate school and how did it prepare you for your career?

> I decided to pursue a graduate degree while working full time. I looked for a quality program that offered a flexible schedule to accommodate working students. I found Villanova’s program impressive, the faculty focused on students’ needs, and a program specifically designed with working students in mind. Through Villanova’s coursework and resources I learned both new skills and enhanced existing skills in communication, research, analysis and problem solving. These abilities assist me in my daily responsibilities which include reviewing, interpreting and communicating policy and regulations.

Any work or internship experience during graduate school?

> I attended Villanova part-time while working for the United States Department of the Treasury.

What was the most important or useful course you took in the MPA/MPP?

> All of the courses at Villanova are applicable to work in public service. Public Administration Theory taught important background about the history and development of modern public administration. It provided a solid understanding of the goals of the degree and the profession.

Were you a Presidential Management Intern?

> No, I joined the Federal government as an Outstanding Scholar.

What has been your career path since graduating? What do you want to be doing in 5 years?

> My MPA was vital in attaining a new job as a program specialist with the USDA. In this position, I work directly with regulations and policy. I assist states in the efficient and effective administration of a federally funded program. I hope to continually gain and vary my professional experience and to further my academic education.

What is the most exciting and/or interesting aspect of your current job?

> There is seldom a dull moment in my office. I find conducting evaluations and offering technical assistance to states administering our programs, as well as interpreting policy, especially rewarding.

Do you feel your MPA/MPP is helping you to “make a difference?” How?

> Yes, my MPA is helping me make a difference in government service. The coursework gives valuable insight into the relationship between government operations and the citizens we serve. The degree reinforces professionalism and the value of civil service. By adhering to professional ethical standards, pursuing lifelong learning and continuously sharpening our skills, we can ensure government, at all levels, meets the needs of its citizens in an efficient and effective manner that positively impacts the community.

What advice, if any, would you give to an undergraduate thinking about going for an MPA/MPP?

> Absolutely pursue an MPA/MPP if you are dedicated to government and civil service. I found it was beneficial to compare my classroom experience with the real work environment. If possible, I recommend working or interning in a government position during or prior to obtaining your degree.