University of Minnesota
HHH
http://www.hhh.umn.edu/centers/hhh
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The Humphrey School of Public Affairs is the University of Minnesota's school of policy and planning.




"I also was impressed with how approachable the faculty was; I really wanted a school where I would be able to interact closely with faculty members, and I got the impression from my visits that Humphrey emphasized that. I was not disappointed.”

Garrett Peterson

Intergovernmental Affairs Liaison,
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Degree: MS-STEP 2009
Location: Bloomington, MN

What is your job?
I'm a Presidential Management Fellow (PMF), which is a federal government fellowship that allows you to become a federal employee (through a non-competitive hiring process) and advance somewhat rapidly. Once I was granted that fellowship, I obtained a job with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, based in Bloomington, Minnesota, which serves as the regional headquarters for eight states in the Midwest.

I work in the office of external affairs, and each of my co-workers and I specialize in a particular area or program within the Service. I serve as the intergovernmental affairs liaison for the Midwest Region, which means that I work on public relations between our agency, Congressional offices, and other agencies in our region. It involves a lot of communication, a great variety of work, and is fast-paced—I love it.

Why did you choose the Humphrey School?
There were a number of things that influenced me. I was interested in the MS program, which is pretty unique in the world of public policy schools, and I liked the idea of combining my background in science with public policy. I also was impressed with how approachable the faculty was; I really wanted a school where I would be able to interact closely with faculty members, and I got the impression from my visits that Humphrey emphasized that. I was not disappointed.

How is the Humphrey School unique?
The Humphrey School has a lot going for it. Being located in the heart of Minneapolis is a great benefit for students. You have access to countless employers, a robust and thriving nonprofit scene, just miles from the State Capitol, local governments, major county governments, Fortune 500 corporations, and all the perks of a major research university. You can pursue any interest you may have. Plus, being the only major public policy school in the state means that the Humphrey School ends up hosting many major leaders and decision makers. It's a well-respected program in the community. Plus, Minneapolis and St. Paul are great places to live. What more can I say?

 

March 15, 2012