Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) Spec. Honours (Management Stream)

Growing up, I always loved to help others. As the time to come to university neared, I found a way to bridge this passion of helping others with a career through a psychology program. While I found this area of study to be quite interesting, as first year came to an end, I found myself toying with the idea of switching into a government-geared program. Seemingly, psychology and public administration are very different programs, however to me, setting myself on a path to secure a government job, fulfilled my passion of helping others on a wider scale. This proved to be the right choice for me as I have found myself extensively motivated since making the change.

I am a second year undergraduate student majoring in Public Administration and specializing in Policy Analysis. A 'planner' at heart, I seek to work for the ministry of foreign affairs, and complete a master's degree following my undergraduate degree. So far, the BPA program has proved to be both challenging and relaxing. While many of the courses entail many readings, the material is both relevant and extremely fascinating. Depending on your interest levels in government and current political issues, reading some of the material can be like reading a novel or watching a movie. Much of the research required for the papers and assignments deepens your knowledge of global politics and history in a way that would be difficult to match with a textbook. Considering the size of the program, another feature I appreciate is the kind nature of the professors, who in my experience are approachable and actively invested in the success of their students.

I am excited about my new role as the Junior Ambassador for the Public Policy and Administration Student Association, while I also volunteer for Peace by PEACE - a conflict resolution and community-building program for elementary school students - and serve as an editor for the Vandoo (Vanier Newspaper).

While I am merely halfway through my undergraduate degree, there are certainly some tips I have picked up during this time. First and foremost, always ask questions. Ask your professors, ask your teaching assistants, and ask your peer mentors. In short, just ask questions. Even if you just want to confirm something, asking questions will never be a bad idea! Developing a relationship with those around you, especially your professors, teaching assistants and peers, will make your university experience less stressful and maximize the value of your degree. Next, it is very important to keep up with readings and due dates. I always find it useful to keep a word document or an agenda outlining all your courses and their associated readings and due dates. This can help you develop time management skills while ensuring you are not losing marks for late work, and performing to your full potential on examinations. My last tip is quite simple but makes a big difference. Take time out of every day to relax and reflect on your day while planning for the next. This can help to de-stress and take some pressure off the day! I look forward to completing my program at York University, and hope to meet you all 🙂 - Eunice Patrick