Like clockwork, every 12 months Maxwell turns out incredible groups of thoughtful, passionate public administrators, eager to make change in the world. I had the privilege of meeting a few of those scholars from last year’s cohort, and am excited to represent Maxwell’s MPA candidates for the class of 2014 with the PAIA Insider.

My name is Elizabeth Burman I’m an MPA student with a focus in Social Policy. I graduated from Earlham College in 2011, a small liberal arts college in the midwest. In college, I studied politics with a focus in American Government. I loved the opportunity to learn about my government and what people are doing on my behalf. After graduation, I joined Rochester AmeriCorps where I worked with The Center for Youth and Upward Bound. I worked extensively with inner-city youth with hopes of gaining perspective on where my place is in service. After one year and 1700 hours of direct service, I know that my place is as a public administrator. I’m excited to use my MPA degree to create effective programs and institutions that help to break the cycle of poverty.

Maxwell provides endless opportunity to move forward and grow within the short time we are here together. This school year will be intense, but as I find my Maxwell niche, I look forward to sharing with you the tips and tricks that I learn along the way.