• 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?

> Shortly after to moving to Frankfort, Kentucky I began looking at options for an MPA program. I was within easy driving distance of 4-5 major universities in Lexington, Louisville, and Cincinnati. But after I saw the national rankings, my decision was simple because the Martin School was highly ranked.

Any work or internship experience during graduate school?

> I held my current job with the Federal Highway Administration in Kentucky while I was in graduate school. My employer was flexible in allowing me time off of work to attend classes in the afternoons. I was able to maintain my work responsibilities and contacts, while at the same time getting a quality education.

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

> From a practical standpoint, the courses in Policy Development, Program Evaluation, and Public Finance have been most beneficial to me in my current position. Since I now manage various programs, it is extremely useful to have the MPA as background knowledge. 

Were you a Presidential Management Intern?

> No.

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

> Shortly after I graduated I was promoted from an Environmental Specialist to an Environmental Program Manager and Team Leader. Five years from now, I hope to be an Assistant Division Administrator with the Federal Highway Administration. 

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

> I work on a variety of different environmental issues concerning highways. One day I may be discussing wetlands with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the next day I may be meeting with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service concerning an endangered species. I also help shape environmental policies for the Federal Highway Administration and the State Department of Transportation. 

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

> I feel that my MPA degree has given me the necessary skills to be effective at a higher level. 

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

> You do not have to work for the government for the MPA degree to benefit you. The policy analysis, program management, and finance skills you will learn will benefit you in almost any sector. I’ve even had consultants in the private sector tell me that they are looking for people with MPA degrees because they need people who can effectively manage programs and solve complex problems.