This year, in order to draw top applicants, the MPA in Environmental Science and Policy (MPA-ESP) program has developed a partnership with AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Alums to help their alumni achieve success in graduate school. Each year, more than 80,000 AmeriCorps volunteers engage in in service at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country.
“We love having AmeriCorps alumni join our program,” said Sarah Tweedie, the Assistant Director of the MPA-ESP program. “When we review applications, we look for people with a demonstrated commitment to public service, so it is a natural fit. AmeriCorps alumni have great experience running programs, managing their peers, and solving complex problems.”
AmeriCorps alumni admitted to the MPA in Environmental Science and Policy program are guaranteed to receive matching funding for the Segal Education Award, which was designed as an incentive for AmeriCorps alumni to pursue higher education following their service term. Successful applicants will be considered for funding of up to $20,000.
“I am so grateful for my experience in AmeriCorps, as it enabled me to focus and direct my passions for service and the environment in a way that was meaningful” said Emily Soergel, a 2011 ESP graduate and former AmeriCorps volunteer. “The education loan made it that much easier to pursue a world-class master’s degree and advance my professional career. I am confident that the knowledge, skills, and networks I gained in my graduate program will continue to serve me well, wherever my career may take me.”
Greg Heinrich, Alumni Mobilization Manger at AmeriCorps Alums shared, “Alums like Emily are quickly developing a reputation as the next generation of leaders in a multitude of careers. AmeriCorps Alums is excited that Columbia’s MPA-ESP program is showing a significant financial commitment to our alumni. Columbia’s commitment to our alumni is ensuring the leadership pipeline created through AmeriCorps has an affordable option for a world class education that equips them with the skills they need to excel in their future careers.”
Read more about some of our alumni and current students by visiting the AmeriCorps Alumni blog.
Apply by January 15! Applications can be submitted entirely online by clicking here. Please contact Sarah Tweedie for additional information.
Students in the MPA in Environmental Science and Policy program enroll in a year-long, 54-credit program offered at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, in partnership with the Earth Institute. Throughout this one-year program, students are immersed in courses that combine Columbia University’s hands-on approach to teaching public policy and administration with pioneering thinking about the environment. During the summer semester, students learn the fundamentals of environmental science, while in the fall and spring semesters, they focus on the policy and economics necessary to becoming successful environmental analysts and managers. Visit our website to learn more about the program.
