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What Students Say About IPA

ake a look at what Lisa says about IPA. Then, come and see for yourself and become another of our success stories! Here’s her profile.

undergrad degree: BA, University of Delaware, Psychology
graduate concentration: State and Local Management
RA experience area: Economic Development

Lisa McIlvaine
Lisa McIlvaine
sallyann
Charles
LeAnne
Dan
cori
Kevin
Susanne
Ivan
Shannon
Garrett
Lisa
Barrett
Michele
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Q.

What attracted you to the University of Delaware? to IPA?

A. As a Delawarean and undergraduate alumna, I was well aware of the first-rate education, beautiful campus, and excellent faculty and staff at UD. Having the [chance] to return to Delaware and attend graduate school at UD was an opportunity that I did not want to pass. I was attracted to IPA because of the program’s blend of education and real-life experience. In addition, my conversations with various staff and faculty prior to starting the program made me realize how involved the IPA staff is with their students.
Q.

What has your experience been like as a UD grad student working at IPA?

A. My experience working at IPA has been phenomenal. My main project consisted of my involvement in creating a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for Delaware, which was a first for the state. This experience allowed me to work very closely with IPA’s expert staff, various state agencies, and public, private, and nonprofit leaders throughout the state. In addition, I have also had the opportunity to work on other side projects, which has allowed me to research my interests further.
Q.

What opportunities have been available to you as a result of your association with IPA?

A. My affiliation with IPA has given me experiences that I would not have been given in other programs—I have worked with state government, private business, and nonprofit leaders throughout Delaware. In addition, I have been able to attend conferences, give presentations, and be involved with projects that have greatly enhanced my education.
Q.

What immediate and future career plans do you have?

A. I would like to work in a capacity that would allow me to further my research and that combines tourism and economic development.
Q.

Why would you recommend IPA to prospective students?

A.  
Q.

What advice would you give to a student who is considering joining the MPA program/IPA?

A. My advice to students considering University of Delaware’s MPA/IPA program is to attend! Take the opportunity given to you. Again, this program is unparalleled by any public service program in the country. You will get hands-on experience, a great education, and the opportunity to meet leaders and experts throughout the region and country.

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What Students Say About IPA