our country and they are unquestionably an important constituency. Nevertheless, I felt
uncomfortable working for a special interest group--even for one I deeply cared about.
From my experiences at the APAA and the NFIB, I have learned how I want to shape my
future. My goals are now clear: I want to develop and advocate policy decisions that will
benefit society as a whole, not just a few influential special interest groups. I want to uncover
the objective truth of issues and tackle them in the best interests of the nation, not distort the
facts for the benefit of a small group. I know I am able to look beyond partisan politics to
solve problems for this country. Because of these unbending desires to reveal truth and to
remain committed to fair and equal advancement for all citizens, I think of myself as an ideal
candidate for public service.
Additionally, I consider my active interest in politics to aid my pursuit of a career in public
policy. I've always found my interest in politics exceptional, ever since my college roommates
used to tease me for faithfully watching C-SPAN. However, my faith in the political process
began to wane as I witnessed sensible public policy proposals torn apart by partisan conflict.
I saw advocacy groups distort facts, and provide extreme, over-blown examples, jeopardizing
prudent policy decisions. I observed how powerful elected officials, ensnared in their own
partisan rancor, would block fair and balanced legislation which offered the most practical
solution for their constituents. But I also encountered many thoughtful and wise people who
devote their lives to public service. These devoted individuals inspired me. Like them, I want
to be actively involved in the design and delivery of essential government services that
improve the lives of the citizens in our society today. I am positive that by avoiding
partisanship and urging the private industry, the public sector and non-profit groups to
collaborate, many difficult problems can be resolved.
In order to be an effective public servant, I recognize the indispensability of an advanced
degree. I've gained a lot of "real world" experience, but I need more training in the
fundamentals of economics and statistics, as well as direction in sharpening my analytical
and quantitative skills. I also want to devote time to studying the ethical dimensions of policy
decisions. In graduate school, I'll have the opportunity to truly understand and appreciate the
competing interests surrounding so many complex issues like health care reform,
environmental protection and economic policy.
I've chosen Duke's public policy program for several reasons. Duke's program stands out
because there is an emphasis on quantitative and analytical skills, which are so critical to
policy analysis. As I mentioned, I feel that if I can strengthen my ability to approach problems
logically and systematically, I will have succeeded in sharpening skills I consider necessary
to succeed in the public realm. And possibly even more importantly, Duke's program bridges
the gap between abstract principles and reality. This interdisciplinary approach is essential
for responding to today's policy problems. I am excited by the possibility of combining the
MPP program with the Health Policy Certificate Program. I am particularly interested in
studying the problem of reforming state health to reduce the number of uninsured, and I
believe Duke's curriculum will offer me a chance to do just that. From my own research into
Duke, I feel confident in my knowledge of the public policy program and its potential to teach
me. And after meeting with Helen Ladd, the Director of Graduate Studies, I'm even more
convinced that Duke's program is right for me.