"The Washington, D.C., Colloquium was the biggest selling point for me, and it did not disappoint. During this experience, my cohort members and I met with government officials, lobbyists, campaign coordinators, news reporters, and several other Washington-based professionals and legislators. It is not too often that you can have a meeting with the National Security Advisor and the Secretary of Energy on the same day, but my classmates and I had that experience during our colloquium."
~(MPP) Alum Alex Stern '21, '22G — East Greenwich, RI
Past positions: UNH Student Senator and Chair of the Police Advisory Commission; Rhode Island State Government Intern
Carsey Degree: Master in Public Policy (MPP)
UNH Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Justice Studies
Why did you choose the Master in Public Policy program at Carsey?
I chose the Master in Public Policy Program at Carsey for several reasons. First, I'd heard about the program through Professor Dan Bromberg in one of my UNH undergraduate courses, where he talked about all of the benefits of an Accelerated Master's degree. I was an undergraduate student who was on track to graduate early and I was uncertain of what kind of career I wanted to pursue. I researched the Master in Public Policy program to better understand the courses and learn more about the program. After researching and speaking with professor Bromberg, I knew that the Carsey school would be the right fit for me. The Accelerated program allowed me to speak with experienced professionals and dive into policy areas that I am interested in. As a result, I feel more prepared to pursue a career in these areas of interest
What aspect(s) of the MPP program have you enjoyed most and why?
The Washington, D.C., Colloquium was the biggest selling point for me, and it did not disappoint. Even with the difficulties of the pandemic, this trip was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. During this experience, my cohort members and I met with government officials, lobbyists, campaign coordinators, news reporters, and several other Washington-based professionals and legislators. It is not too often that you can have a meeting with the National Security Advisor and the Secretary of Energy on the same day, but my classmates and I had that experience during our colloquium.
This portion of the program was a beneficial learning and networking experience for me. It was the first time I took a course where I could meet people who are currently working in the industry that I would like to someday work in.
How does the MPP curriculum fit with and support your future career goals?
The program truly prepares its students with critical skills and experience that translate to the workforce. For example, as a result of this program I am proficient in analyzing data, creating reports, effectively writing, and strategic thinking. My master's degree has prepared me with additional insight into analyzing legislation and thinking critically about potential ramifications through the use of data. This will directly translate to the consulting, lobbying, and advocacy positions I plan to apply for.
How would you like to most make a difference in your career after finishing your graduate degree?
I would like to pursue a career that makes an impact. A career in advocating for issues that I am interested in is important to me. Many of the issues that we have discussed in our courses regarding healthcare, criminal justice, housing, and economic affairs all interest me, and there are many admirable policy-related careers in these fields and areas.
