Choosing a Masters in Public Administration

“If you can write it and you can say it, you can do it.” In a single sentence Professor Eric Claville succeeded in attracting me to the study of public administration. Sitting in Introduction to Public Policy class, I was instantly fascinated by the idea that through effective communication I could improve policies and programs to better serve the public. Professor Claville’s lessons enabled me to think analytically as I developed a scholarly policy brief entitled “Enforcing a State-wide Texting While Driving Law in Arizona”. Soon, I was faced with the notion that public administration was not only an agent for change, but a tool to fulfill my passion. It is a possible pathway to take on a leadership role that would make a difference for disadvantaged groups.

An undergraduate degree in Sociology has heavily influenced my decision to pursue a Masters in Public Administration (MPA). Academically, I have remained consistent in excelling in all tasks I have undertaken. I have learned about group dynamics and how different approaches are utilized to solve the problems they may entail which are important to serve the public effectively. It also exposed me to broad program planning. In the course of my Research Internship under Dr. Zina McGee, I successfully created a research based program that would help minority youth cope with victimization. This experience further sparked interest in this field, specifically in planning social programs. Selecting courses such as Public Policy and Statistics have broadened my knowledge in the area of public administration and data analysis as well. Through my rigorous coursework, I acquired the necessary background to think analytically, solve problems, and communicate effectively, both written an...

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I have contacted PROF, who has encouraged me to apply. I would really love working under his guidance for my PhD’s believe that graduate education at your University will enhance my knowledge, give me wide exposure and develop my abilities to do independent research. I consider myself an enthusiastic and hardworking person, and I am sure that my stay your university will be a very fruitful one.

I am aware of the hard work and perseverance required to complete the MPA program at George Mason University. I possess the aptitude and demonstrated the drive necessary to handle the rigors of graduate study. In conclusion, given the above-mentioned goals, the MPA program holds great relevance and potential for building on my prior academic and practical experiences and to endow me with an understanding of efficient delivery of public services.