Hometown
Valparaiso, IN
Undergraduate education
Bachelor of science in environmental sciences, University of Notre Dame
Professional/research interests
Energy and climate policy, with a special interest in electrification
Accomplishments
Expected graduation date
May 2025
Why an MPA?
Before coming to UW–Madison, I worked in South Bend, Indiana at a nonprofit where I worked on several environmental consulting projects. A lot of that work involved strategic planning around the city’s electrification, energy efficiency, and urban forestry initiatives. I found it to be exhilarating, and with incoming federal funding, the work was ever-changing. I sat down and wrote a list of all the types of work I liked doing in that role—research, project management, informational interviews. It aligned perfectly with the MPA curriculum, and I began looking for programs to suit my policy interest area!
Why the La Follette School?
I was first captivated by the city of Madison—its proximity to the lakes, variety of live music venues, and kind people. When I learned more about the La Follette School, it became clear that I could attend an excellent, renowned policy school while at the same time living in a fun, mid-sized city. I was impressed with how knowledgeable, caring, and high-achieving the La Follette alum I spoke with were, and was equally impressed by the caliber of classes and availability of career counseling and opportunities. I could not be happier to be a part of this community!
Advice for prospective La Follette School students
Speak with faculty members and current students in your area of policy interest if you can! Don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions.
Interested in studying at the La Follette School?