Emmy Steinbrick
Program: Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Graduation Year: 2024
Age: 24
Hometown: Orange, CT
Grad SHUdent Spotlight: Why I got My Master of Public Administration (MPA) Degree
A Sacred Heart alum talks about her experiences in a policy and data-driven program
For people looking for jobs in local, state and federal government, nongovernmental or nonprofit organizations, a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree is necessary to effectively lead, understand public policy and apply analytical skills to make data-driven decisions.
SHU’s MPA program does that and more. Through the program, students get hands-on experience working with data and nonprofits, applying their abilities along the way. Emmy Steinbrick graduated with her MPA in May and can’t wait to get out into the field.
What interested you about the MPA program at SHU?
I chose the MPA program at SHU because of the various concentrations available and the flexibility with online courses. Beyond the general public administration foundation, I had the ability to pick from criminal justice, emergency management, nonprofit management and a self-designed track. This wide variety of paths and online modality truly drew me in and helped me to make a confident decision for the next two years of my education.
What do you like about the public service sector? Why are you passionate about this field?
I chose the criminal justice concentration because I have always wanted to make an impact in this field, whether through working directly with individuals directly affected by the criminal justice system or helping to enact legislation.
What did you like about the MPA program?
I had some incredible professors during my time in the MPA program. I was able to form strong connections and rapport with my instructors. Their willingness to assist and answer questions helped me improve as a student and a future professional.
What are some key takeaways from the program that you believe will help you land a job?
I believe that the curriculum helped me become a well-rounded professional. I am especially appreciative of the social justice courses. These courses helped me understand how to be socially aware and knowledgeable when it comes to injustices, microaggressions and even my own biases. Furthermore, I learned how to be a capable administrator in my field, in that I can advocate for the people that I hope to serve one day. This field is very much rooted in public opinion and communication, so I have learned over and over how interacting with the public is something that must be done and done correctly.
Why would you suggest this program to others? What kind of students should apply to the MPA program?
The MPA program at SHU has provided me with various skills and a wealth of knowledge that, I believe, will provide a competitive edge when joining the workforce. Enrolling in courses that cover topics ranging from social justice to data analytics equipped me with tools that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Anyone deciding to join this program will no doubt reap the same benefits.
I believe a student that is driven to learn more and ask questions about themselves and the communities/organizations they may serve one day should most definitely apply. The professors in this program offer such a vast wealth of knowledge and experience, so those with curious minds should most certainly seek out this opportunity. A background in public policy, political science and communications may also be helpful as these topics are covered as well.
For more information about Sacred Heart University’s MPA program, schedule a meeting with Cristen Meehl, or reach out at meehlc@sacredheart.edu or 203-416-3031.
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