“Think about what truly excites you and what kind of impact you want to make in your career. Not just in terms of job titles, but in the difference you want to create. Public policy and public service can sometimes move slowly, but they offer a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful change. It can be incredibly rewarding, so if it’s something that inspires and motivates you, it’s absolutely worth pursuing.”
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Graduate Public Policy Student Spotlights
Paving the Way for Equitable Environmental Policy
“I wanted a graduate school that would challenge me intellectually while preparing me for a leadership role in public service. Through family and campus visits, I found that Bloustein stood out as a top choice for both public policy and a public service education. I’m passionate about environmental justice, community engagement, and helping underserved populations. The Bloustein School aligns with all of those goals.”
Leading Change Through Policy and Planning
“As I thought about what I’d want to change in the world, I realized that everything starts with policy and advocacy. I hope to develop programs that allow communities to advocate for what they feel is best suited to their needs, and provide them with the tools to make it possible. The more I learn and the more people I work with in the MPP/MCRP programs, the more I can refine exactly what I need to do to fulfill my goals.”
Cultivating Change through Policy: From Newark to Capitol Hill
“I am the proud mother of two incredible children who inspire me every day to lead with purpose and resilience. Being at the Bloustein School has exceeded my expectations. The program is a stepping stone to my dream, allowing me to merge government relations, advocacy, and communication into a meaningful career. It equips you with the tools, support, and confidence to lead meaningful change and the faculty truly want to see you thrive.”
Advocating for Nature from Girl Scouts to Environmental Policy
Jenna Agnello MPP ’27 chose the master’s program in public policy because of her love for the environment. One of her first courses, Public Policy Formation, really opened the door for her to what public policy is all about.
Pathways of Purpose: Changing the World through Public Policy
After completing her degree, Jasmine Hoff MPP ’25 plans to head to Washington D.C. She hopes to work on legislation and policy that positively impacts the Black community.
Equity in Action: A Public Policy Journey
A proud New Jerseyan, Awn Rizvi was born in Trenton and has lived in central Jersey his whole life. “With its connections and close relationship with New Jersey’s state government, my decision to attend Rutgers’ Bloustein School was a no-brainer.”
Beyond Borders: Navigating Public Policy for Socio-Economic Progress
As a dual public policy/public informatics master’s degree candidate, Beauty Okunbor is not wasting any time working towards her goal of helping eliminate the declining socio-economic conditions in her home country.
Quantitative Compassion: A Journey to Data-Driven Policy
Tarun Arasu’s journey towards public service was sparked during his undergraduate years at Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani (BITS Pilani). While majoring in energy efficiency and energy economics, he served as the General Secretary of the student body.
Taylor Pickett-Stokes (MPAP/MSW ’24) takes the stage in “Black Girl Magic”
Dual Master of Public Affairs and Politics/Master of Social Work candidate, Taylor Pickett-Stokes will be taking the stage at Mercer County Community College’s (MCCC) Kelsey Theatre March 1-3 with Virginia-based Underground Performing Arts Collective (UPAC) and their presentation of “Black Girl Magic.”