“When deciding to apply to graduate school, it was important that I started with the end in mind.I knew what my goal was, so I had to figure out what path would get me there. I was delighted to learn that my alma mater offered the very program that I needed to achieve my goals, with one of the best urban planning programs in this region. I chose the urban planning/public informatics track at Rutgers’ Bloustein School because it bridges the ideas and plans for what can be done with the technical skills needed to put them into action. With every class that I take, I immediately see the practical application and feel more equipped to step out into the workforce.”
Topic
Spotlights
Applying Data Science Beyond the Tech World
“I was interested in applying data science to real world problems and was having a hard time finding a program that did that until I came across the MPI program at Bloustein. On a technical level, the MPI taught me how to manipulate data to solve problems. This became very useful for interpreting the administrative data I work with now. On a professional level, it taught me how to discuss and present data in an impactful way, which allows me to better communicate to the administrative staff who use the tools I develop.”
Curious About Cities, Inspired by Communities
“I was drawn to the fact that the Bloustein School’s MCRP program consistently ranks among the top in the country. I was also impressed by the support I received from Bloustein staff and faculty during the application process. Their willingness to meet with me, answer questions, and establish a strong relationship before I ever even stepped foot in New Jersey was very welcoming. There is much to see in New Jersey, and I love the diversity of history, cities, and communities I can easily access by train and bicycle. It’s been a wonderful experience.”
Networking and Data Analysis Helps Build a Policy Career
“I felt a master’s program in public policy would be the best way to prepare and position myself for where I want to be in the future. Rutgers offers an outstanding program with professors with real-world experience and countless opportunities, along with generous financial aid and scholarship support. The Bloustein School also has an incredible alumni network that extends throughout New Jersey and beyond.”
Translating Health Issues Leads to Breaking Down Administrative Barriers
“Navigating the tension between hands-on patient care and bureaucratic hurdles made it clear to me that better operational systems and technology are needed to absorb administrative friction, allowing professionals to focus on high-stakes human needs. I chose the Bloustein School’s MHA program because of its flexibility, which allows students to work during the day and study in the evening. The connections and opportunities presented to me have been nothing short of exceptional. If I had to choose all over again, I wouldn’t hesitate to make Rutgers my top choice.”
Design and Data: Transforming Urban Mobility
“What I enjoy most about the field of urban planning is that it combines design, data, and the ability to make a difference for communities, helping create fairer and more accessible cities. That’s the kind of work I want to do. My goal is to apply the transportation planning and GIS expertise I’ve developed at Bloustein to design more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable transportation networks that improve quality of life in our communities.”
Ivania Martinez: Economics, Data Science, and Public Policy
Ivania Martinez’s work combines economics, data science, and public policy to support data-driven decision-making and social impact.
Beyond the Bedside: From Biology to Healthcare Leadership
“When I started researching MHA programs in New Jersey, Rutgers was the first school I considered. The Bloustein School really stood out. It’s CAHME-accredited and offers a multifaceted, well-balanced curriculum. My courses are engaging, exciting, and challenging and have helped me build the competencies I need to become a leader in healthcare administration.”
Channeling Research Into Policy Reform
“Think about what truly excites you and what kind of impact you want to make in your career. Not just in terms of job titles, but in the difference you want to create. Public policy and public service can sometimes move slowly, but they offer a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful change. It can be incredibly rewarding, so if it’s something that inspires and motivates you, it’s absolutely worth pursuing.”
Sina-Marie Mayer: Intersection of data science, AI, and public policy.
Sina-Marie Mayer works at the intersection of data science, AI, and public policy. In a directed research project, she analyzes large-scale Reddit data using natural language processing and topic modeling to examine how fear and stress appear in public discourse around artificial intelligence.