Meet Gabriel, a current student in our Master of Public Administration program! In this spotlight, we showcase his background, experiences, and aspirations in public service, highlighting the passion and commitment that define the next generation of public leaders.
What brought you to the City College of New York and to the Colin Powell School for Civic and Global Leadership?
Having received the Bachelor’s diploma in 2021, I knew I had unfinished business at CCNY. With a deep admiration to the talented staff within the Colin Powell School, I knew I had to come back for my MPA. Having started my second year, I am proud of the decision to continue here and gain a deep understanding of just what is expected of Public Administrators in the field.
What advice would you give to future or prospective MPA students?
That even if you are thinking of an MPA is already a sign that you are on the right path. Talk to your loved ones, coworkers, mentors to see how an MPA diploma would fit in with your professional ambitions. Start to gather documents and recommendations needed for the application. Just as important, as I am witnessing right now, the time will fly by, so go for it!
What do you enjoy most about being part of the MPA community?
The support from the MPA staff and my cohort! I am proud to recognize how we are quick to help one another in any instance that comes up for our classes/assignments,. Also, the way we cheer for one another in goods time and comfort one another in bad times is a testament that we are all in this journey together and will maintain our friendships long after we graduate.
What inspired you to pursue an MPA?
I would not have sent an application if it wasn’t from the constant support of my loved ones, especially Albana, Gazi, David, Brajan, Xiomi. Knowing that I have support and comfort from loves ones encourages me to keep going and to push through to the best of my abilities.
What has been your favorite class or professor so far, and why?
This course (Communication in Public Service), taught by Professor Matthews has given an eye-opening experience in the art of communication in the public sphere. Prof. Matthews introduced us to distinct methods to deal with public communication, giving essential advice such as “learning to pivot” and “know your audience beforehand” that I have used in my current line of work as a Community Associate in the Mayor’s Public Engagement Unit (PEU).
What are your plans or hopes after graduation?
To utilize what I’ve learned throughout my courses to enhance my skills and gain a managerial role in a City-based agency so that I may implement progressive ideas based on data-based decision-making to help as many New Yorkers as possible.
Ready to lead change in public service? Explore the MPA Program at the Colin Powell School:
colinpowellschool.ccny.cuny.edu/graduate-programs/master-of-public-administration-mpa
