Why I Chose NYU Wagner (From Real Students!)

Choosing a graduate program is a deeply personal decision and for NYU Wagner students, that choice often came down to a shared commitment to public service, real-world impact, and a community that challenges and supports in equal measure. In this post, we hear directly from graduates about what led them to NYU Wagner, what made it the right fit, and how their time here continues to shape their careers and purpose today.

 

Arina Qian – Master’s in Public Administration, Public & Nonprofit Management & Policy (MPA PNP) ‘26

When I decided to pursue my MPA, I was looking for a program that combined social impact, innovation, and investment—a place where I could develop the skills to bridge the gap between mission-driven organizations and financial sustainability. NYU Wagner stood out because of its interdisciplinary approach and strong emphasis on real-world application.

As an international student from China, I also wanted a global, diverse environment where I could connect with peers passionate about creating meaningful change. At Wagner, I found not only a supportive community but also incredible opportunities to apply what I’m learning—whether through impact investing projects, sustainability initiatives, or collaborations with faculty and professionals in the field.

One of my most rewarding experiences has been starting my first startup project, which helps students and early professionals navigate careers in sustainability. Wagner’s emphasis on networking, leadership, and hands-on learning has played a key role in shaping my journey.

For prospective students looking to drive social impact through policy, innovation, and business, Wagner provides the perfect blend of academic rigor and practical experience. I’m grateful to be part of a community that empowers us to turn ideas into action.

 

Ahmad Rafsanjani Mustahar – MPA-PNP ‘25

 

When I chose NYU Wagner, I sought a place that aligned with my passion for public service, leadership, and social impact. Coming from Indonesia’s Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu), I wanted to refine my skills in policy implementation and governance. Wagner’s emphasis on evidence-based policymaking and community-driven solutions resonated deeply with my experience leading Kemenkeu Mendengar, a platform that amplifies employee voices in shaping national policies.

Beyond academics, Wagner opened my eyes to the true meaning of Unity in Diversity. Here, I learned that regardless of our religion, race, political beliefs, or backgrounds, we are all the same as human beings. My leadership roles, including President of NYU Indonesia, Communications Chair of NYU WISS (Wagner International Student Society), and Co-Regional Coordinator for Indonesian Government Scholarship Awardees, reinforced this belief—showing me the power of collaboration across cultures. These experiences taught me that real leadership is about inclusivity, understanding, and collective growth.

Wagner’s diverse and inclusive community has shaped my leadership, strengthened my analytical thinking, and broadened my global perspective. It has fueled my mission to bridge divides, foster understanding, and drive impactful change—not just in Indonesia, but globally.

I am grateful for this transformative journey and excited to continue working toward a world where differences unite rather than divide us. Let’s grow together.

 

Sai Srihas Borra – MPA-PNP ‘26

My decision to pursue an MPA in Health Policy and Management at NYU Wagner was deeply influenced by my experiences in public policy and workforce development. As a Mahatma Gandhi National Fellow, I worked within the Commissionerate of Skill Development in India, where I engaged with government and private stakeholders to improve workforce training. I led initiatives that enhanced training outcomes by 30% and organized over 50 stakeholder meetings to drive evidence-based policy changes. This experience reinforced my passion for data-driven healthcare solutions and solidified my desire to explore health services management further.

I've found a motivating peer and academic group at Wagner committed to bringing about significant change in the healthcare industry. My capacity to evaluate intricate policy issues has improved as a result of the demanding curriculum, especially in the areas of policy and healthcare management. Wagner's dedication to experiential learning has also given students priceless chances to put their academic knowledge to use in practical situations.

Beyond academics, I love how Wagner fosters collaboration and innovation. Engaging with diverse perspectives has broadened my understanding of healthcare access and equity.

Choosing Wagner was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I look forward to using the knowledge and experiences gained here to drive positive change in the healthcare sector.

 

 

Cherrelle Hall – Executive Master’s in Public Administration (EMPA) '21

 

I chose NYU Wagner as I was looking to continue to develop and evolve as a leader in my field. The Wagner EMPA program attracts students from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise so I knew that it was the perfect place to continue to develop my skills, learn new skills, and make meaningful connections that would last a lifetime. My Wagner experience was transformative in so many ways and I'm truly grateful for the experience. 

 

 

 

 

Ignacio Aravena – Master’s in Urban Policy (MUP) ‘20

I applied to NYU Wagner because I was inspired by its strong commitment to public service and social impact. The expertise of its faculty and the multidisciplinary curriculum were also compelling factors. Studying alongside passionate peers who shared my vision of public service was pivotal in my decision to choose Wagner over other options.

For me, the MUP program offered a balance of technical subjects, soft skills, and societal and political insight. On the one hand, I immersed myself in urban planning, housing policy, and economic development while also deepening my knowledge of real estate and quantitative methods. On the other hand, the program’s emphasis on understanding the political and social context underpinned every course. I still recall a final project in a quantitative methods class where we analyzed wage gaps and prepared briefs for different stakeholders, ensuring our recommendations reached properly to each audience. Similarly, serving as chair of the Urban Planning Student Association allowed me to share valuable moments with my cohort by organizing multiple events and engaging with the community throughout the year.

These experiences have followed me throughout my career, supporting me at key moments, whether pursuing my PhD at the London School of Economics or shaping policy discussions with Chilean legislators and government officials. My time at Wagner empowered me to contribute to Chile’s dream of becoming a developed nation with truly thriving cities that are livable for everyone.

 

Ishani Shah – Master’s in Health Administration (MHA) ‘25

I chose NYU Wagner for its interdisciplinary approach to policy, management, and finance, which aligns with my goal of driving change in healthcare’s public and private sectors. Wagner’s emphasis on data-driven decision-making, leadership, and real-world problem-solving made it the perfect fit.

What inspired me most was Wagner’s strong connection to New York City. The program offers unparalleled access to government agencies, financial institutions, and policy think tanks, providing hands-on learning experiences that bridge theory and practice. The opportunity to collaborate with diverse professionals—from finance and government to healthcare and nonprofits—enriched my perspective and expanded my network.

What I love most about being a Wagner student is the dynamic learning environment. The MHA program allows me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges. Faculty members focus on academics and real-life case studies, and they are industry leaders who bring practical insights into discussions, which makes Wagner unique. The collaborative atmosphere and mission-driven focus make every class meaningful.

Wagner offers more than just an education for students exploring their options—it’s a launchpad for impactful careers. Whether you’re interested in finance, public policy, or social innovation, Wagner equips you with the skills and connections to make a difference in the healthcare industry.

 

Author: Elizabeth Thompson, Admissions Officer