Neil Reilly

Can you describe your current job duties?

I manage a policy analysis team that works with teams across the agency to provide insight and recommendations to agency and city leadership.

Why did you choose Wagner for graduate school?

I chose Wagner for several reasons. The primary reason was that I was interested in getting a post-graduation job in which I could work on some urban social issues, and staying home in NYC was the perfect opportunity for that. Other things I considered were the fact that the local government is swarming with Wagner alumni; and the fact that I felt I could get the type of job I was looking for with either an MPA or a law degree, so the appeal of being done in one fewer year was strong.

How did your Wagner experience prepare you professionally for what you are doing today?

The primary preparation was the quantitative training I got in the MPA policy analysis curriculum. I wanted to gain data skills to pair with my writing ability, and that's exactly what those quantitative courses gave me. On a more general note, the exposure that Wagner offers its students to the work that is actually happening in and around New York City government is an accurate glimpse into the policymaking process.

How would you describe your experience as an NYU Wagner student?

It was initially daunting to meet classmates whose backgrounds were so impressive. I eventually found my niche and made lifelong friends as well as countless professional connections while a Wagner student.