Profile of MPP Students
There are approximately 40 students in the MPP program. The MPP student body is drawn from a wide range of backgrounds and interests. Many students enter the policy program directly from undergraduate school, while others have several years of professional experience. While most policy students majored in the social sciences, USC invites applications from individuals from any discipline. What USC students have in common are strong analytical, quantitative, verbal skills; an active curiosity and probing mind; and a deep commitment to understanding and solving the problems facing our society. They enjoy a rigorous immersion in the economic, political, and cultural context in which policy decisions are made and implemented, and are excited about being part of the process.
MPP Student Quotes
Roberto Garcia
MPP 2002
robertog@usc.edu
Undergrad institution: UCLA
Hometown: Hesperia, CA
Recent Internship: Intern, California Speaker of the Assembly
"I chose USC because it is in the center of all the action, Los Angeles!
I'm interested in being a Policy Analyst at the State or Federal level of Government
The curriculum is structured and tailored to, and hence will better prepare me for, the needs of the Public Policy field; it's very practical "real-world" curriculum.
The campus is beautiful; it's a true college community.
My advice to prospective students is to research your areas of interest, and ask many questions, talk to alumni."
Nisha Varghese
MPP 2002
nvarghes@usc.edu
Undergraduate Institution: UC Berkeley, class of 2000
Hometown: Cerritos, CA
Current Internship: Public Health Program Coordinator Intern, March of Dimes
"Having gone to a large public university, I wanted to go to a small school for grad school and USC seemed perfect. When I visited, the professors were awesome and so helpful. Plus the campus was so nice and it's in the heart of LA.
I want to work in the non-profit sector. My area of interest is health policy.
The thing I like the most about the MPP program is all the professors are so smart and helpful. They go out of their way to help you when you have a problem or question in class. Also, all my fellow MPP students are so nice and we all help each other out and encourage each other.
Definitely check out the campus and professors before deciding to come to USC."