Sam Berzok

Where do you work? Describe your current job and how your role contributes to making an impact.

I am an Analyst at Moody's Ratings. In the Public Finance Group, we provide credit analysis of public and nonprofit entities for bond investors. Evaluating credit and climate risk is an important process for these municipalities and authorities to access the capital markets. 

Why did you choose NYU Wagner for graduate school?

I chose Wagner because it provided the best community of faculty and students to analyze policy and finance issues through the lens of New York. Though I knew I wanted to pursue the MPA-PNP degree, I was fascinated to take urban planning courses as well. 

What was your favorite class?

Race, Ethnicity, Class & Gender in American Cities with Dr. Leon 

What skills did you develop at NYU Wagner that are most helpful to you in your current work?

Analyzing financial statements and crafting a succinct memo have been invaluable for my career in public finance. The Capstone project also prepared me for group research which I conduct in my current role. 

How did your experiences at NYU Wagner prepare you for your career?

Wagner connected me with excellent faculty who helped me transition my career from state government into public finance. Taking courses in Debt Finance and Public Economics taught me the foundations necessary for credit analysis. It's great to see my network of fellow classmates across the city and across the table in a meeting.