Current Location/Hometown: Orland Park, IL

What was your overall UIS experience like?

My overall experience with the UIS faculty and staff was very positive. Everyone with whom I interacted seemed to be there for the right reasons. They enjoyed their job, and they did their very best to make sure the educational experience was enjoyable for the students. As an older student, I was reminded that we can always learn and always improve in our careers. Since I was working full-time and traveling between two states, I was unfortunately unable to participate in clubs or activities.

Do you have any fond memories of your time at UIS you'd like to share?

Surprisingly, for a graduate program, I still made some friends. We were all busy, but there are a few I still keep in touch with, and network with through various social media platforms. And, in the public service space, I would imagine I'll still run into several classmates in the future.

Why did you choose UIS?

My 2 other degrees are from Illinois universities -- one from another U of I campus (Chicago). I talked to the admissions department of another school and didn't have a pleasant experience. UIS was very friendly and professional, and after talking with their staff, I immediately made my choice and registered.

What has your career path been like? How did you end up where you are?

Wow. That is a loaded question. I started as a police officer, put myself through law school, ran for elected office, and after practicing law for over 20 years, I learned that I love public administration. Upon being hired by a city in Michigan, and learning that almost all of my direct reports had an MPA degree, I decided to go back to school. I wanted to be able to "speak their language". I recently had an opportunity to work for a city near my hometown, and I absolutely love the work and the team here.

How did your UIS education prepare you for your career?

Just like I always say law school doesn't teach you all of the law, but it teaches you how to think like a lawyer, UIS's MPA program helped me with some technical skills. But even more importantly, it taught me to better appreciate the role of one in Public Administration. My studies have helped remind me what our role is, and who the stakeholders are.

Do you have any cool hobbies/side projects you'd like to tell us about?

I've played in bands most of my adult life. While I don't find as much time to play in public anymore, I still get together with friends fairly regularly and play music with them

What are some life lessons you'd like to share with current students?

First, you're never too old to learn something new, or to even switch careers. Second, half the battle is pushing through the difficulties. It's not always the smartest people who do the best in school. Often, it's those who can persevere when things get tough. Finally, one bad grade (or maybe even a couple) are not going to impact your future. Years into your career, nobody asks what your GPA was. Make sure you work hard, and learn as much as you can.