The transition from academia to professional life can be difficult for many graduate students. But Chris Smith is prepared.

Set to graduate from Dalhousie’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program next year, Smith will enter the workforce with hands-on, practical experience under his belt, placing him miles ahead of many students across the country.

Beyond academia

“I’m from Ontario, but I was attracted to Dal for my MPA because of the program’s applied learning components,” says Smith. “In the spring, for example, I was fortunate to travel to Toronto with a team of students to compete in the National Annual Public Administration Case Competition. My colleagues and I were able to propose our ideas surrounding Canada’s F-35 Jet Procurement issue, and learn from top talent about how to fine-tune these into practical solutions, beyond the textbook.”

In addition to gaining new insights into public policy development and implementation, experiences like this have given Smith the opportunity to develop networking skills, presentation skills, critical thinking and confidence – all of which are needed in the field.

“Being able to put our studies to work solving real problems was an invaluable experience – especially in front of a national audience,” says Smith. “I was also able to make critical connections with many potential employers as a result.”

In addition to extracurricular opportunities like case competitions, the MPA program facilitates internships and offers unique professional development training. From mock job interviews to teaming up with partners in the community to tackle specific issues, students like Smith quickly gain applied skills in communication, leadership, project management and more.

“Like anything, an effective education relies on striking the right balance,” says Dr. Sharaput, MPA graduate coordinator. “That’s why experiential learning is so important, to help prepare students to enter the workforce with success.”

Hitting the ground running

Smith, now completing his internship with the Government of Alberta as part of the program, feels confident in his ability to contribute to his team. “Oftentimes students understand the classroom setting, but not how to apply themselves and their knowledge in a professional context. Because of applied learning opportunities through Dal, I’ve been able to step into my internship and understand what my manager needs, and how to go about delivering those solutions in an efficient, effective way.”

With proven success, the School of Public Administration is dedicated to expanding experiential learning opportunities throughout its programs.

“Many students wouldn’t be able to afford travelling to Toronto to participate in national case competitions, but these are the experiences that shape above-average educations,” says Dr. Sharaput. “That’s why funding that supports experiential learning is so important, to provide students with an advantage when they move on to the public service.”

Please make your gift to Dalhousie’s School of Public Administration to support experiential learning opportunities for students like Chris Smith.