Hometown
Normal, IL
Undergraduate education
Bachelor’s degree in music education and viola performance, Illinois State University
Employer
UW Population Health Institute, County Health Rankings & Roadmaps
Job title
Evidence & Policy Analysis Team Lead
Start Date
November 2024
Primary job responsibilities
Plans and leads operational, outreach, and promotional activities for What Works for Health, and serves as a subject matter expert in health policy.
How did you begin your career after graduating from La Follette and what path led you to your current position?
After graduation, I worked as an Evidence Analyst in the same program where I had my project assistantship during my time at La Follette, County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. Now, I serve as the team lead and manage What Works for Health, an online database of health intervention information.
What drew you to the La Follette School?
I was particularly drawn to the customizable nature of the MPA at La Follette and the ability to take courses throughout such a large, well-known university. Having the flexibility to dig into topics that interested me as I grew each semester was very rewarding.
Most rewarding La Follette School experience
The most rewarding experience at the La Follette school was connecting with like-minded students who cared about the same ‘big ideas’ as I did.
What experience at La Follette was most influential in achieving your career goals or current position?
As someone who returned from the workforce to attend graduate school, I was able to focus on building expertise in the domains where I wanted to work after graduation. PA 863: Health Systems and Policy was a key class and PA 873: Introduction to Policy Analysis really solidified my skills and interests in working in policy analysis.
What advice would you give to current La Follette School students?
On the academic side – explore interdisciplinary classes! Research professors and find courses that really push you to think and develop as a policy professional. You’ll find incredible courses all across the university. On the practical side – wherever you can, build relationships that will support you post-graduation. This includes your peers, employers, and other community members.