MPA Student Experiences

Stacey Kreger, MPA '10

"It cannot be overstated how important it is to have supportive professors and staff in a graduate program. While applying to grad schools, I looked at several programs and the UConn DPP was the only one that provided a noticeable 'personal touch.' From fairly early on in the process, I knew that I would not be just a number and that the staff and professors really cared about the students’ success. After over a year in the program, that first perception has proven accurate. The course work is challenging but the professors are extremely accessible and the support staff makes every effort to ensure the students excel in the program."

Chaz Plungis, MPA '10

"Through their holistic approach to the teaching of public administration, the faculty in the department of public policy provide each student with the skills necessary to successfully design, implement and evaluate public programs. These skills are essential in the new world of public administration in which administrators are under pressure to both increase the efficiency of public programs and demonstrate concrete results. I am confident that the UConn MPA program has prepared me to be a successful public servant, wherever my career might take me."

Caty Patton, MPA '10

"The UConn MPA Program has challenged me to continually push myself to do what I think I cannot. The program is small enough so students have direct access to the professors, and the professors are helpful and friendly. Professors encourage students to work together, which allows students from different backgrounds to learn and grow as a group. Additionally, the network of alumni is such a valuable resource and past alumni make themselves available for advice and networking opportunities. I feel constantly challenged, but always supported, which is something I think is very unique to the UConn Program."

Larry Pellegrini, MPA '10

"As a transfer student from a much larger program, I've found that the UConn MPA program offers me the same top-quality education, in addition to: access to both my peers and professors on a much more personal level, access to relevant internships that might not be available outside of a state capitol such as Hartford, access to participation in faculty research projects that might not be available outside of a research focused institution, and access to dual degree options, certificate programs, and student groups and organizations that might not be available outside the confines of a major university such as the University of Connecticut. While the program is small, its ability to promote growth in its students is large. I've been more than satisfied with my experience here as a dual degree candidate in both the MPA and MSW programs, not to mention those three certificate programs I'm completing!"

Steve Bartha, MPA '08

"I selected UConn over other MPA programs for three reasons. First, the program is large enough to offer students the flexibility and freedom to design a degree that fits their personal and professional goals, yet small enough that students feel constantly encouraged and supported by the faculty. Second, the strong, analytic foundation of the program allows students to develop a practical set of real word policy tools. Third, the program's strong ties to the professional community throughout Connecticut, New England and Washington D.C., afford students an array of internship opportunities in local and state government during the program and valuable connections beyond."

Manisha Srivastava, MPA '09

"UConn's MPA program has provided me with many opportunities and really set the stage for my future career. Through the program I not only received a great education from involved professors, but also had the opportunity to participate in government internships at the state and federal levels. During the program I developed an interest in economics and decided to pursue the newly created program offering joint MPA and MA in Economics degrees. The MPA faculty and staff were really encouraging and helped me overcome administrative obstacles to make it all happen. UConn's MPA program offers a close-knit community with a fun and social atmosphere; I highly recommend this program to anyone!"

Alexis Browne, MPA '08

"The Department of Public Policy has given me the tools I will need to be successful in the workplace. The professors of Master of Public Administration program are always helpful and available. They should be credited for the success and determination of the students."

Holly Stocker, MPA '09

"The Department of Public Policy has positively challenged my preconcieved notions about what it would mean to work in the public sector. I feel more inspired to work towards my professional goals, because of the combined influence of dedicated professors, pointed coursework, and diverse colleagues. "

Chris Forster, MPA '08

"Upon entering into the program I was greeted with a wealth of support. The education I received was top notch and I felt like every person involved in the department was there to personally help me improve as a person and a professional. I am now graduating with clear direction and an abundance of valuable knowledge from a nationally recognized MPA program."

Katie Moore, MPA '09

"The UCONN MPA program has introduced me to the public sector and to the inner workings of a non-profit organization. The faculty and staff are genuinely interested in my learning experience and meeting other students has been an amazing experience, as we all come from diverse work backgrounds but still share common goals. The Department of Public Policy at UCONN has so much to offer and I would recommend the program to anyone with a passion for serving the public."

Barbara Rua, MPA '08

"When researching the UConn MPA program I was impressed by the networking; small classroom sizes; strong relationships with local municipalities; and unique internship opportunities available. Once in the program I was struck by the faculty members' impressive credentials coupled with their genuine concern for students. This well recognized program offers motivated students a tremendous opportunity to shine. As a graduate I am now prepared to become a successful practitioner."

Sean Kimball, MPA '09

"The UConn MPA program offers students accessible and experienced faculty, extensive professional connections, as well as an excellent public policy education. The program has been able to attract top-notch faculty, while remaining small enough to provide incredible access to professors both inside and outside of the classroom. The MPA program’s active alumni association offers students an invaluable resource for jobs and connections in Connecticut, Washington D.C., and across the globe. Finally, the program has been designed in such a way that the knowledge and skills taught in the classroom build upon those taught in previous courses, meaning that students will graduate with an impressive skill set and the ability to put theory into practice. “