Spotlight on Allie Omens

We interviewed current online student Allie Omens. Allie lives in Nashville, Tennessee and works as the Zero Waste Program Coordinator for the Nashville Department of Waste Services.

What’s your hometown, alma mater, and current job title/employer? 

I was born and raised in San Diego, California, but made my way to North Carolina to attend UNC-Chapel Hill for my undergraduate studies. After earning my degree, I moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where I now serve as the Zero Waste Program Coordinator for the Nashville Department of Waste Services. In this role, I lead education and outreach efforts and develop special policy initiatives to help Nashville residents reduce their waste.

What inspired you to pursue an MPA, and why did you choose UNC?

Through my undergraduate studies and professional experience in waste reduction, I’ve developed a strong passion for advancing solid waste regulation to better serve communities across the United States. The MPA@UNC program offers the academic foundation and public service framework that will prepare me for greater impact in this field. It’s also a great honor to continue my education at my alma mater and the country’s first public university where faculty are deeply committed to understanding and improving government.

Can you share a bit about your background before joining the program?

Growing up in San Diego, California, I was surrounded by strong local environmental policies, which first sparked my interest in environmental regulation. My undergraduate experience at Carolina, along with the mentorship I received from UNC Public Policy faculty, helped propel my career path in local government waste and recycling services at the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County. Before joining the UNC MPA program, I focused on policy research and stakeholder engagement for Nashville’s proposed construction and demolition diversion ordinance. Since starting the MPA program, I’ve been able to leverage my growing skillset to advance my career, taking on a leadership role as a team lead for the education and outreach division to increase community involvement in local waste services.

What has been the most valuable course or experience in the UNC MPA program so far?

One of the most impactful courses for me has been Organizational Theory. Learning different frameworks for analyzing how organizations function has given me valuable insight into leadership and strategic policy implementation. Fun fact—Org Theory was the class I sat in on when applying to the program, and it helped me decide that the UNC MPA was the right fit for me!

How do you balance coursework with professional or personal commitments?

Right now, I’m balancing full-time work, part-time studies, and planning a wedding, so I definitely know a thing or two about time management! My biggest strategy is staying organized with a written planner—I map out assignments weeks in advance to stay on top of deadlines. I also lean on my support system of family and friends, who remind me to take a step back and recharge when needed.

What has been your favorite part of being in the UNC MPA community?

I love seeing the wide range of career paths that benefit from the UNC MPA curriculum. Now that I’ve been in the program for over a year, I recognize familiar faces across my classes, and it’s been rewarding to watch how my peers apply what we learn to their professional work.

What advice would you give to someone considering the UNC MPA program?

Go for it—and be ready to hustle! The program is rigorous, but having a strong support system makes all the difference, especially for those of us in the online program balancing full-time work responsibilities. That said, I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this program, and I truly believe it’s worth the investment.

Outside of your studies, what hobbies or interests do you enjoy?

I play in a weekly co-ed soccer league, which is my favorite way to unwind after long stretches of evening classes. I also enjoy crafting, especially embroidery, and I often bring a project to my local coffee shop to take a break from studying. And if wedding planning counts as a temporary hobby, I’d add that to the list as well!