Personal Statement
Since entering the MPA program in spring 2007, I have been extremely fortunate to have acquired the skills necessary to be an effective administrator within the public sector. As an Urban Administration emphasis I have taken courses which have prepared me for my duty towards public service such as:
· Research methods and data analysis
· Microeconomic analysis
· Policy-making and implementation
· Managing organizational behavior
· Managing human resources
· Managing budget in the public sector
· Urban administration
· Community and economic development
The skills that I have acquired during my time in the MPA program have aided my professional development exponentially, especially during my internship with the Richmond City Council where I was able to routinely apply the skills and techniques that I learned in the public administration program.
After graduating with a Master of Public Administration, I hope to be able to use the skills that I have acquired to improve the quality of life for those living in disadvantaged communities. My goal is to serve in some capacity on the local or federal level where my efforts will make a direct and positive impact.