Shaped by SPEA
TYLER BROWN, MPA-MSES 2012
▲ Current position: Policy Analyst, White House Office of Management and Budget; President-Elect, American Association for Budget and Program Analysis (AABRA). ▲ What SPEA meant: “SPEA gave me an opportunity to hone my quantitative and analytical skills, which prove invaluable while preparing the President’s budget. My work in the federal government is not performed in a vacuum, however, and SPEA’s collaborative environment and emphasis on group projects helped me to define the unique strengths I have to offer in a team setting. As a result, I’ve quickly become comfortable assuming a leadership role, whether on a government-wide fiscal report or at the helm of a professional organization.”
▲ Current position: Analyst, Cadmus Group, Inc., – Energy Services Group. Tyler analyzes the market impact of state-level energy efficiency policies, focusing primarily on technical and market feasibility of regulatory standards. ▲ What SPEA meant: “Working with world-renowned faculty, cuttingedge curricula, and brilliant peers at SPEA was exceptionally worthwhile and critical in preparing me for a career in the energy industry. Challenges offered by coursework and projects were useful opportunities to prepare for the fast-paced world of energy consulting. My experience at SPEA equipped me with the skills necessary for analyzing and improving energy efficiency programs that are critical to securing a sustainable and responsible energy future. Along the way, I was fortunate to also develop meaningful friendships and partnerships that will support me for years to come. In all, SPEA offered an exceptional opportunity to set myself apart as a professional with valuable experiences, significant skills, and meaningful connections.”
RUTH POLLAK, MPA 2011
SARAH HUGHES, MPA 2013
These graduates are seizing the chance to lead change.
MELISSA NEUMAN, MPA 2010
▲ Current position: Campaign Area Director-Europe, Kiwanis International. Ruth, based in Belgium, administers the fundraising efforts for this worldwide service project to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus in Europe with a goal of reaching $14 million by 2015. She also manages the connection of all of Kiwanis youth programs with the campaign. ▲ What SPEA meant: “As a Fulbright grantee, I spent two years at SPEA which presented me with the most incredible experiences of my lifetime. Coming from Europe, the adjustment from a bustling capital to a school in the Midwestern part of the country seemed strange for many — but the cultural diversity, interconnectedness and variety of opportunities at SPEA and Bloomington are extremely underestimated. My journey led me to become International Student Coordinator at SPEA, mentor an exchange program in Berlin, work in Washington D.C. as Government Affairs Specialist for Thomson Reuters, and assist in creating a new and unique abroad program with internships in Kenya (ACCT). All of this would not have been possible without the most important asset of SPEA and one of the constants in all my endeavors: the personal connection and networking with professors at SPEA, my mentors. I have found my passion through SPEA — to give back, make a difference and care — which I credit entirely to this program and will incorporate in my professional career forever.”
▲ Current position: Presidential Management Fellow, Office of Entrepreneurial Development, U.S. Small Business Administration. ▲ What SPEA meant: “Because of my SPEA experience, I have had the opportunity, the training, and the confidence to explore a new avenue of the public affairs sector — the federal government. When applying to graduate schools, I was looking for a graduate degree program that would supplement my passion for and knowledge of issues facing communities with the practical skills that would make me an informed and effective public servant. I am thankful I ultimately selected SPEA, as during my tenure, I was able to have access to world-renowned, intelligent professors, who truly enjoy preparing students to face challenges in the nonprofit, public, and private sectors; a talented, dedicated staff, who seek to support the path and tailored interests of each Masters candidate; and a thriving, vibrant community of Bloomington, IN. While taking classes and working together on group projects with colleagues, I witnessed my peers’ individual passions and appreciated our collective, collaborative nature and a commitment to public service. Now as an alumni, my rewarding experience has been reflected each time I meet alumni and other individuals in the extensive SPEA network.”
www.spea.indiana.edu
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school of public and environmental affairs
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