Emily DePorto, MPA '26

Headshot of Emily DePorto

Name: Emily DePorto 

Hometown: Brooklyn 

Program: Master's of Public Administration  

What was one of the most meaningful experiences you had during your time in the MPA program? 

I had many meaningful experiences with classmates and professors throughout the program, but one of the most impactful was serving as the Graduate Assistant for the Rockefeller Career Development during my first year. That role gave me a firsthand look at how deeply the school invests in connecting students with opportunities across the world. I was so impressed by how accessible and supportive the department was, and by the school's strong emphasis on professional development and real-world experience through workshops, newsletters, drop-in hours, advising meetings and information sessions. Being surrounded by those opportunities pushed me to grow tremendously, both personally and professionally. To this day, I still reference resources I kept from my time there.  

What specific skills or experiences through the program prepared you for the role that you’re in now? 

This program strengthened my ability to engage with public participation in a meaningful and practical way, which has been essential in my current role in policy and program development. I learned not only how to effectively facilitate discussions and collect feedback, but also how to use that feedback for tangible action and informed decision-making. The program also significantly strengthened my quantitative and qualitative analysis skills. On a daily basis, I analyze mass provider survey data, code and summarize qualitative themes, and use those findings to help shape policy and program decisions. 

What advice do you have for students who are considering or pursuing an MPA degree? 

Be open, try everything on, and do not be afraid to pivot if it feels right. This degree will expose you to policy fields, career paths, and opportunities you may have never considered before. While it is important to have goals, some of the most valuable growth comes from staying open to new experiences through coursework, internships and conversations with peers and faculty. Albany is an incredible place for professional development and offers endless opportunities. My career path looks completely different from what I imagined when I started the program in 2022, and I could not be happier with where I landed.