What made you decide to do a degree in Public Policy?
I have long been passionate about addressing societal issues and creating positive change. Complementary to my undergraduate degree in Global Development Studies, Public Policy offered me a comprehensive framework to understand complex problems and formulate possible solutions.
Tell me a bit about the path you took after graduating from the MPP program in 2022.
After completing the MPP program, I was drawn to the dynamic intersection of environmental policy and economics. I joined Natural Resources Canada鈥檚 Canadian Forest Service as an economist, where I have been involved in conducting economic analyses of policies and programs related to the forest sector.
What are some of the highlights of your career so far?
One highlight in my career has been actively contributing to shaping the policy direction of species at risk, a crucial aspect of environmental conservation and sustainability. It is rewarding to provide intersectional, evidence-based data to inform and enhance the direction of policy and regulation.
What stands out for you as the value of an MPP degree today, and how have you put your MPP skills into practice in your current work?
The MPP degree equips individuals with a deep understanding of policy processes and a robust analytical toolkit. In my current role as an economist for Natural Resources Canada鈥檚 Canadian Forest Service, I regularly leverage these skills to analyze data and assess policy implications.
What do you know now that you wish you knew when you graduated?
Hindsight has taught me the importance of embracing adaptability and resilience in the face of uncertainty. The post-graduation journey is inherently dynamic, and the ability to pivot and remain resilient has been key. Understanding that career paths can be nonlinear and being open to unexpected opportunities would have been valuable advice to my younger self.