Why MPA?

Rishnie (another MPA) and I at a football game

Hi everyone!

As the holidays roll around (best time of the year!), I am certain I will be asked my family and friends “Why MPA?” (The switch from MIS was a little bit of a surprise to everyone.) This sounds like a simple question, and I’m sure some of you already have an answer prepared, perhaps in preparation for interviews. But, for me, it took a lot of thought.  I figured I would share my thoughts on this because some of you may be prospective MPAs who are actually asking YOURSELF the question, “Why MPA?” Or you might be current MPAs who have been giving this some thought recently.

My experiences in MPA thus far have led me to believe that there are infinite reasons to join the MPA program, but there are two extremes that you will find are pretty common:

First, is the student that has known for years (might I even say their whole life) that they wanted to be an accountant (or maybe they even knew they wanted to be in the MPA program at UT.) If this is you, congratulations! You did it! Or if you are a prospective MPA then definitely apply- make your dreams come true!

The other extreme is the student who, when asked why they joined the MPA program, gives you a big grin, a small shrug, and says, “Why not?” If this is you, congrats to you too! And just know, you are not alone.  (I have to admit I fall into this second category.) The MPA program is full of fantastic opportunities and as a third-year MPA, I am anxious and excited to see what the program has in store.

And even if you don’t feel like you fit either of these extremes, I guarantee there is a place for you in this rewarding program.

Anyway, I hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful weather because here in Texas, you never know how long it will last. And for all of you stressing because you have 100 things to do, and only about 4 weeks left in the semester, here is an accounting joke to ease your anxiety. Because laughter (even the rolling-your-eyes, embarrassed that I’m telling an accounting joke, forced kind) is the best cure for worrying.

The accountant had just read the story of Cinderella to his four-year-old daughter for the first time. The little girl was fascinated by the story, especially the part where the pumpkin turns into a golden coach. Suddenly she piped up, “Daddy, when the pumpkin turned into a golden coach, would that be classed as income or a long-term capital gain?”

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