4th year Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) major specializing in the Policy Analysis stream

Hello, my name is Ali Adam, and I am a fourth year student in the Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) program in the policy analysis Stream. 

As the end of my undergraduate journey comes to a close, reflecting on my academic experience becomes almost nostalgic. From feeling lost in my first year, to being guided by SPPA professors as I progressed through school, it’s amazing to see how much the SPPA helps you grow and I thank York University for making this a reality.  Moreover I am awestruck at the fact that the breadth of public policy and administration means a purposeful career with a sense of belonging. Likewise, some of the courses which helped supplement this sentiment were PPAS 4995 and PPAS 4380 respectively. PPAS 4995- Practicum in Public Administration was the most unique course I’ve done so far. This provided me experiential education in policy development or evaluation in working with a Ministry or Municipality. My opportunity was with Ontario’s Ministry of Energy and Electrification where I undertook analyses to supplement policy in their Distribution and Modernization Branch. The course itself can provide a great starting point for students looking to apply their public administration skills in a workplace setting and is a great way to boost your career. PPAS 4380- Local Government is another intriguing course which focuses on the policy landscape of cities and towns across Canada. The topics discussed in this course include insights on the political economy of municipalities and their unique role in challenges such as housing and transportation, this course offering provides a unique perspective on an area of public policy and administration. 

For those who want to further enhance their professional skills, the Public Policy and Administration Student Association (PPASA) is an excellent student-run organization that will help you network, find job opportunities and become part of a much larger community that share and are interested in administrative and policy-based career pathways. As someone who has worked their way up to President of this team, I dedicate my day-to-day efforts in ensuring that our team primes students for success in a field of public policy and administration through the events we hold. Being part of this organization and community is a great opportunity for students to develop great skills and discipline for their future careers. A commitment to the SPPA and PPASA is an opportunity you do not want to miss! I humbly thank the School of Public Policy and Administration for their dedication to the professional development of their students and I am excited to see what academic and professional opportunities lie ahead of me!