Meet Gillian Hamilton, a Capital District native, who is pursuing her Master’s degree in Economics at University at Albany

Meet Gillian Hamilton, a Capital District native, who is pursuing her master’s degree in Economics at UAlbany after earning a bachelor’s degree in journalism from SUNY New Paltz in 2020. While completing her bachelor’s in economics in 2021, she worked at WNYT NewsChannel 13 before moving on to roles at New York StateWatch and the Times Union.

Now a Government Affairs Associate at Statewide Public Affairs, Inc., Gillian supports clients through policy research and strategy. She’s also an active volunteer with the Junior League of Albany.

Currently in her final semester, she credits her studies with sharpening her skills in data analysis, policy, and critical thinking. Set to graduate in May, she’s even considering continuing her academic journey!

💡 Her advice for future grad students: “Don’t be afraid to question everything—it deepens understanding and builds stronger connections.”