A Master of International Affairs student on how GPS has prepared him for a career in policy — and how contributions from GPS grads helped make it possible
Some of Jack Berger’s favorite childhood memories come from road trips he and his family took to Southern California from their home in Las Vegas.
Now, as a Master of International Affairs candidate at UC San Diego’s School of Global Policy and Strategy (GPS), he gets to take in the Golden State sunshine while pursuing his goal of working to shape federal policy — which he says wouldn’t have been possible if he had not received the Hanson-Sterner Fellowship, an endowed scholarship established in 2015 by Lisa and Jay Hanson, both GPS alumni from the class of 1996.
GPS News talked with Berger to hear about what motivated him to study international affairs and how the generosity of donors played a crucial role in his decision to attend GPS.
What prompted you to consider going back to school for a master’s degree?
The main catalyst that drove me to pursue a master’s degree was my internship experiences in Washington, D.C. I found that a majority of the key policy-making roles were held by people with advanced degrees. In the future, I’d like to shape policy for the federal government, and a master’s degree will make me a stronger candidate for these critical positions.
What makes internships valuable?
Internships help you develop critical skills while working on real-world projects, and they help you discover what you do and don’t want out of a career. My internships with Senator Catherine Cortez Masto and the Environmental Protection Agency refined my skills, introduced me to great people and helped solidify my interest in a public-sector career.
What aspect of your GPS training gives you a competitive edge in your field?
Most students graduating from master’s programs in this field will have strong writing skills. However, at GPS, you learn how to perform statistical analysis and run regressions, which allows you to present critical information to decision-makers. That’s a valuable skill employers are always looking for. Having a strong quantitative base separates GPS graduates from those of other programs.
What surprised you most about the GPS community and its long-term value?
As a younger member of the cohort, I have really enjoyed getting to know some of my classmates who have been in the workforce for 10 or more years. They’ve been a great source of advice as I prepare to launch my career.
“Without this fellowship, it’s unlikely I would have pursued a master’s degree.”
Additionally, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed getting to know my international classmates and hearing their insights on topics within their home countries and other global issues. Studying at GPS has expanded my network internationally.
What else should prospective students know about GPS?
The coursework here is extremely rewarding, but the program also does an excellent job of preparing students for professional life. The Career and Professional Development Center does an amazing job of supporting students in their internship and job searches, and they’re an invaluable resource. Professors help students develop critical skills, and the Careers team ensures that you market those skills in a way that will land you in the career you want.
How has the fellowship you received made an impact on you?
I’m extremely grateful to alumni Lisa and Jay Hanson, whose generous gift made this all possible. During the application process, I was unsure about attending graduate school due to the recent reductions in the federal workforce and the shifting landscape of international affairs. I felt uneasy about the prospect of potentially taking on loans for a graduate program, only to graduate into a market with few opportunities. Without this fellowship, it’s unlikely I would have pursued a master’s degree. Supporting fellowships at GPS will continue to help others, like me, who are passionate about creating real-world impact and developing the skills they need to lead industries.
Want to make a GPS education possible for a student like Jack? Give now through April 29 for fellowships as part of Triton Giving Day.
