Cady Cooper , 2025

Cady graduated from the UNC MPA program in May 2025. She earned her undergraduate degree at University of Mississippi in Public Policy Leadership & French.

Q1: Cady, you are finished with your MPA!  Congratulations, how does it feel?

Thank you so much! It feels amazing! Completing the program was incredibly rewarding, and I’m so proud of everything I learned along the way. The experience really expanded my perspective and strengthened my skills which has given me a deeper understanding of public service and a renewed sense of purpose.

Q2: Tell us about your initial decision to pursue an MPA.  Did you consider other grad degrees?

I always knew I wanted to pursue a graduate degree, but after entering the workforce full-time, I realized a part-time program would be the best fit for me. I wanted to stay in Washington, D.C., so I started researching local programs and considered options like a Master of Public Policy. Ultimately, I decided that an Master of Public Administration aligned more closely with my goals. I came across UNC’s MPA program through online rankings and reviews, and after researching further, it checked every box. Choosing UNC’s online MPA program was one of the easiest and best decisions I’ve made.

Q3: Was it difficult working full time and going back to school?

Balancing both definitely required some adjustment. There were challenging periods, especially when a demanding work week lined up with major school deadlines, but it was never unmanageable. The program’s structure and the understanding nature of the professors made a huge difference. They recognized that many of us had careers and personal responsibilities, which created a supportive and flexible learning environment.

Q4: Can you tell us about a favorite class, specific project or experience, or meaningful professor in the program, and what you gained from it?

There were so many enriching classes and memorable experiences throughout the program, but one professor in particular made a lasting impression on me, and that was Professor Ana-Laura Diaz. I had the opportunity to take her Law for Public Administration and Mediation for Public Managers courses, and she was phenomenal. Her teaching style was dynamic, thoughtful, and engaging. She had a unique way of bringing real-world relevance to the classroom, whether through discussions of landmark court cases or practical conflict resolution strategies. I still carry many of her lessons with me, especially around ethical leadership and effective communication. I’m so grateful to have learned from her!

Q5: What advice do you have for those considering going back to school or starting a career in public service?

My biggest advice is to connect with people who’ve already gone through the experience. Current students or recent graduates can offer honest, practical insights about what to expect. It’s also so important to research programs carefully to find one that aligns with your personal goals, interests, and lifestyle. And perhaps most importantly, get clear on why you want to pursue further education. Understanding your purpose will help guide your decisions and keep you motivated through the challenges of graduate school.

Q6: What are you looking forward to in your career?

I’m looking forward to making real, tangible impacts in the communities I care deeply about. I’m especially drawn to roles that combine strategic thinking with public service. This could be through leadership positions, policy development, or driving organizational improvements. Both my MPA coursework and my work on Capitol Hill have shaped the way I view public service, and I’m excited to apply those lessons to shape policies and improve public services. At the heart of it all, I want to be part of efforts that lead to lasting, positive change.

Q7: And a fun question to end with.  What are you reading or listening or looking forward to most this summer?

This summer, I’m most looking forward to picnics on the National Mall with friends. Jimmy Buffett is always on repeat for me during the summer months, and my “Want to Read” list is overflowing! A few books I’m hoping to get through are Senate Procedure and Practice by Marty Gold, East of Eden by John Steinbeck, The Next Conversation by Jefferson Fisher, and Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins.