Student Highlight: Tony Summers

Name: Tony Summers

Current Employer: Salt Lake County Human Resources           

Job Title: HR Specialist

Where you interned: 2^nd District Juvenile Court

Year of Graduation: 2016

 How has obtaining an MPA degree from the University of Utah helped you in your career? I believe that being an MPA has sent a message to hiring managers (especially other MPA alumni) that I’m committed to public service, that I value learning and improvement, and that I have a foundation of knowledge which I can build on. Receiving the MPA gives me common ground with many of the people I respect and wish to model in my professional circle who are also MPAs.

What skills learned from your internship were most important in your career development? My internship gave me the opportunity to observe and work within a government agency.  I was able to see how that agency interacts with other government agencies, gain experience working with public officials, and learn the importance of equity, professionalism, and ethics where the government and public meet. That understanding has given context to my current work in government, and has allowed me to assess the environment around me.

What advice would you give to incoming students? I would encourage incoming students to make as many friendships and connections as possible within the program; with alumni, classmates, and with faculty and instructors.  I’ve had opportunities to help and be helped as I’ve moved along in my career, often by classmates or former MPA alums. There are great professional role models within the University of Utah MPA community.

 

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