Student Experience

Students at the Watson Institute do more than learn in classrooms. They are active members of our community and are dedicated to the Institute’s mission of promoting a just and peaceful world through research, teaching and public engagement. On this page, you will find stories about how Watson students and alumni are making an impact.

Student Experience

Laura Cianciolo, who earned her Master of Public Affairs at the Watson Institute in 2024, credits her Watson-acquired expertise in statistics, econometrics, data visualization, problem-solving skills and interdisciplinary problem-solving with empowering her to conduct more sophisticated and meaningful research.
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The combination of data analytics and policy analysis taught in Watson's Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program prepares people for real-world situations, whether they are working in government, for a think tank, or in the private sector. The mentoring and support among MPA alumni can also lead to professional development.
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David Benoit, a 2023 graduate of Watson's Master of Public Affairs program, has used the data analytical and policy evaluation skills he gained in the program, along with faculty mentoring and prior experience working for then Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza, to earn a position as the racial justice advocate for the American Civil Liberties of Massachusetts.
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Named one of 18 Luce Scholars, a nationally competitive yearlong fellowship in Asia, Anna Lenaker reflects on how the Master of Public Affairs program prepared her for academic success and future career exploration.
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Aaron Ayala plans to work in immigration policy by using the research and analytical skills and professional connections he gained through Brown's Master of Public Affairs program.
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2022 Master of Public Affairs graduate Adilkhan Kopabayev said the skills he developed in the program have been essential in navigating the complex job of chairman of the board of the Situational-Analytical Center of Fuel Energy Complex of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
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Gulsima Young, who believes good policy-making must include kindness, appreciates the community and collegial environment Brown's Master of Public Affairs program provides.
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Shifting career focus and his Watson MPA Policy-in-Action experience led Jonathan Macomber to a policy analyst position with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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This fall the Watson Institute hosted a unique study group in collaboration with Brown's Undocumented, First-Generation College, and Low-Income Student Center (U-FLi). The study group, which was open to all students, focused on skill-building and leadership development for first-generation, low-income and undocumented students.
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