Program Analyst, DC Office of Property Management, Washington, D.C.

A Peace Studies major while in college, Newsha Dau wanted to complement her education with quantitative, research, and writing skills that would make her a valuable member of any team.

"When I first considered applying to the Woodrow Wilson School, I was intimidated by what I knew would be an extremely rigorous program. Although the coursework and small cohort were extremely demanding at times, it was the best investment I have ever made in myself and my career. The faculty and administration took a great deal of interest in my career, course of study, and me as a person.

"My focus in urban studies will help me to adapt to any government or policy position. Learning how to analyze and propose policy changes—whether on the local or national level—courses such as Domestic Politics and Domestic Economics will help me run any local agency, advise policymakers, or advocate for policy initiatives.

"Attending WWS greatly influenced my decision to work in policymaking rather than in politics. I learned how important it is to work on substantive policy issues in order to make a difference in people’s lives, and I feel empowered to do so by what I learned at WWS."