Q: What attracted you to the MSPE program?

A: I knew I wanted to go to a public-policy related program, and I knew I wanted it to place a lot of emphasis of evidence-based policy and research methods. I was not able to find a program that really drew me in until I learned about the *brand new* MSPE program at Rice. The fact that it was in Houston, my home, was an even greater bonus.

Q: What was your career or undergraduate education like prior to the MSPE program?

A: Prior to the MSPE program, I had a few roles in government and in the policy space. Right before I started the program, I worked as a policy analyst on Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo’s policy team, on policy areas including early childhood, housing, and mental health. My undergraduate education was in economics and political science at Southwestern University in Georgetown, TX. I had brilliant and dedicated and inspiring professors, challenging and stimulating classes, and an intimate classroom experience.

Q: Where are you now in your work and what do you do?

A: I am back at Harris County, now working as a Senior Research Analyst at the Analyst’s Office. At the request of the members of Harris County Commissioner’s Court (the governing body of Harris County, comparable to a city council, but for the county), our office produces research reports, data analyses, and other written materials to answer complex policy and research questions.

Q: What was the highlight/most memorable moment of your experience in the MSPE program?

A: I really enjoyed working on group projects with the sweet and brilliant members of my cohort. Everyone came from such different backgrounds, but everyone had a collective interest in meaningful work and change that really united us. Everyone helped each other, we made study groups, we zoom-ed constantly, it was a really great cohort.

Q: What was your favorite class in the MSPE program?

A: My favorite class was quantitative search methods. I remember drawing myself diagrams and long notes and explanations to help myself understand the theory behind the research we were reading, and I remember feeling so excited and satisfied when something finally clicked and made sense for me. Lots of light bulb moments. 😊

Q: What would you say to someone who is considering how this degree might complement their job?

A: I would say that if you ever read research as a part of your job, whether that is in the public policy space or nonprofit space or even private sector, the MSPE program is extremely valuable. You’ll learn how to ask deep and critical questions about why we make the decisions we do, what is important to us as a community and society, and how we might measure progress and outcomes over time realistically.