Public Administrator Often Goes Unappreciated Because These

¶ … public administrator often goes unappreciated because these underrated professionals often work behind the scenes, in offices and in the field. But the work they do invariably affects our lives. One day as I was stopped at a red light, it occurred to me that at some point a person actually decided how many minutes this light would last, and whether or not to place it at this intersection in the first place.

Driving down the road, I also contemplated the strategic planning of roads and their locations to and from the suburbs. At some point, public officials worked with consultants and other experts for things that most people take for granted every day. The locations of schools and other publicly funded facilities like water treatment plants are all determined by city planners. How much money to allocate for specific resources isn't easy and requires years of training and experience.

For years now I have wondered if there was a place for me in the job arena as a public administrator and a city planner in particular. Because the practical work of city planners fascinated me, I started to look into pursuing this area as part of my studies. After completing my undergraduate degree, my interests became even more focused and I decided to apply for a Masters degree in Public Administration.

My career goals are straightforward: I hope to someday be an urban planner and to contribute to the maintenance and development of local resources. Several aspects of this profession interest me, such as the implications of urban development on the environment. The transportation needs of suburban dwellers directly affect air quality in any given area, and cities must do what they can to ensure that the quality of air is maintained at a high standard. City planners, therefore, have an immediate impact on the local environment.

I would like to be a part of the decision-making process that affects current and future generations. As an urban planner I can also work with special needs communities, like the elderly and the homeless, to raise funds and provide adequate resources to improve the lives of all the residents of a given area. Moreover, it excites me to think about being able to have a say in important matters such as the improvement of public transportation systems or recycling programs.

A also look forward to working with elected officials and business people alike. Urban planners, because they often span the political and business communities, must have a firm knowledge of the needs of both these groups as well as the citizens of a community. One of my main goals is to be able to be a liaison between these various communities and interest groups. Effective communication skills must me combined with practical knowledge, such as that gained with a Master's degree, to act confidently and professionally.

With appropriate education and job experience, I will be a successful public administrator and urban planner in particular. An MPA will offer the necessary training, support, networking, and training I need to accomplish my personal and career goals. In the short-term, I hope to work with either.