How long have you been in the program and what is your concentration?
I am in my last semester of the MPA program, but I started the program through the Accelerated Admissions program during my senior year at App in 2023. I am in the Town Administrator, City, County Management (TACCM) Track.
What are your career goals, and how has the MPA program helped you to progress towards your goals?
After graduation in December, I will be working with Greater Winston-Salem Inc. as an Economic Development Associate. When I began the program, I always wanted to be a town manager, however, through the MPA program I learned that there were many other opportunities that were available with this degree. I began to expand my horizons and looked into the role of an economic developer. Thanks to the alumni base that the MPA program offers, I was able to meet with economic developers from all different sized governments and organizations. I am excited to start on this new journey and hopefully be able to give back to future MPA students in this role.
The MPA program has provided me with invaluable internship opportunities through the City of Hickory, Town of Valdese, and Town of Lake Lure. All of these experiences shaped my knowledge and understanding of how local governments of all sizes operate. In the classroom the MPA program has provided me with hands-on experience of grant writing, budget analysis, and personnel management. One thing that I always promote when discussing this program is the real-world application that it provides to its students that really translates into making well-rounded leaders.
What advice would you give to a prospective student about the App State MPA program?
Never be afraid to try something new and step out of your comfort zone. There is so much that this program and life have to offer, and you have every right to take advantage of the opportunities presented to you. You never know what an internship or seminar or conference might bring forward to you. Always remember that your peers, coworkers, and professors are here for you (especially in the MPA program) and they all want you to succeed. Never be afraid to reach out to them and try and cultivate relations with those within the program. Not only will they become some of your best friends - but they may also even be coworkers to professional connections you can call on in the future.
Do you have a favorite quote that is meaningful to you?
"What's Next?"- Jed Bartlett. Anyone who knows me knows that the West Wing is my all-time favorite show and this quote encapsulates that. For me, this quote projects a growth mindset that we do not need to belabor the point but continue forward to the next great project. We can celebrate our wins and mourn our losses, but we must continue to push forward and think about what happens next.
Trey Blackwood
Trey Blackwood