MPA Student Spotlight: Madison Kirshner

Madison Kirshner is in her final semester of the Masters of Public Administration program and will also be receiving the Certificate in Nonprofit Management. Madison moved from New Jersey in August 2019 to attend NC State’s MPA program and is very happy with her decision to join the Wolfpack.

What drew you into the field of public administration?

I always knew that I wanted to do something that would help those in need and make a positive impact, which sounds broad, but I knew that public administration encompassed all opportunities possible for me.

Why did you choose the MPA program at NC State?

When looking for an MPA program, I wanted one that had a great reputation, vast network, and knowledgeable administration that would allow for me to grow exponentially as I readied myself for a career in public administration. NC State had it all.

What are your career goals?

My career goals are to help create opportunities for community wellness and promote youth development in areas of high need and underrepresented populations.

What have you found to be the most interesting and/or challenging part of public administration?

It has been interesting to understand the intermingling of all public and nonprofit organizations, and how knowledge of them all makes for a better public administrator in order to navigate the ins-and-outs of advancing public service.

What has been your favorite part of the MPA program so far?

My favorite part has been the ability to connect with so many like-minded peers that want to make the same deep-rooted changes as myself and faculty willing to do their part to help you thrive as you work towards your lifelong goals.

What advice do you have for students considering an MPA?

If you want to be a catalyst for the change you wish to see in the public sector, get your MPA to learn the skills that are highly valuable in making those strides. The MPA creates the future local, state, and national public leaders that set the stage for generations to come; be a part of that movement.