Current student Joseph Giles reflects on his first ICMA conference attendance

Joseph Giles is a first year UNC MPA student from Rutherford County in Western North Carolina. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from North Carolina State University.

———————————————————————————————————-Q1: Why are you pursuing a MPA degree?

I graduated in May 2025 and chose to pursue my Master of Public Administration at UNC–Chapel Hill to build on my passion for public service. That interest began in high school when I volunteered with my county’s COVID-19 response efforts and saw firsthand how effective local government can make a real difference in people’s lives.

Q2: Tell us a little about the ICMA conference.  Is it what you expected?  What did you get out of it?

The ICMA conference completely exceeded my expectations. The sessions covered everything from intergovernmental cooperation to public service ethics, and it was great to meet managers from across North Carolina and beyond. I also loved getting to connect with classmates outside the classroom and see how what we’re learning applies in the real world.

Q3: People always talk about the benefit of networking and talking to people, and we know these conferences give you an opportunity to do so, but it doesn’t always come easy.  Did you find yourself naturally falling into helpful conversations, or did you make it a point to put yourself out there and start up some conversations?

It was a little of both! At first, it felt awkward to approach people, but most managers were so friendly and eager to talk with students. As the week went on, I got more comfortable striking up conversations—and the social events really helped those connections happen naturally.

Q4: What is one topic or seminar or discussion from the conference that you especially enjoyed or had a ‘takeaway’ from?

I really enjoyed the student-focused ethics session. It went beyond theory and dove into the real-world ethical challenges public servants face. It reminded me that ethics in government isn’t always black and white and that leadership means constantly reflecting on your values.

Q5: How do you feel about your career path following the conference – are you (still) interested in local government as a career path or did it change your mind at all about what your plans might be following graduation?

I came into the MPA program already interested in a career in local government, and the ICMA conference only reinforced that decision. Hearing directly from managers about their work, challenges, and impact made the field feel even more meaningful and rewarding. Between what I’ve learned in the program and what I experienced at the conference, I’m more confident than ever that local government is where I want to build my career.

Q6: What do you want people interested in public administration to know about our program?

I came into the UNC MPA program with high expectations—both for the academics and for the sense of community and professional network—and every one of them has been exceeded. The coursework is rigorous and deeply relevant, the professors are genuinely invested in our success, and the classmates and alumni create a supportive network unlike anything I’ve experienced before. It’s a program that not only prepares you to serve but inspires you to lead with purpose.