Major: B.S. in Public Affairs
Expected Graduation Date: May 2024
I came to UTD undeclared, with an eye towards studying math and physics. When I realized that I wanted to tackle issues of science governance rather than be a scientist myself, I started looking to add a major in EPPS – and took classes in IPE, economics, public policy, political science, and public affairs. The faculty in the Public and Nonprofit Management program are awesome, and after a semester of classes with Dr. McCaskill, Dr. Russell, and Professor Benavides, I was sold. Public affairs teaches a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge about governance structures and organizational leadership, providing a solid foundation for several future careers: it’s perfect for a polymath like me.
Outstanding faculty, small classes, and highly-motivated peers. Campus engagement has been a large part of my UTD experience, and it’s significantly more fun alongside a consistently engaged group of peers. Apart from that: the mentorship of several EPPS faculty, from Mr. Benavides to Dr. Boots. The accessibility of faculty to undergraduates in EPPS never ceases to amaze me.
Next, I will be pursuing my master’s degree in Human Decision Science at Maastricht University as a member of the Fulbright Student Program. After returning from the Netherlands, I plan to move to Washington D.C., where I want to pursue a career in public policy with a focus on natural resources policy.
Take classes, even if you don’t have a declared major/minor yet. Reach out to students. Talk to faculty! I’ve found that people in EPPS are incredibly generous with their time. If there’s something you want to know, or a career pathway in the public sector or policy sciences that you want to explore, there’s almost certainly somebody here equipped to help you out.