Nicholas Muy

Graduate student, Master of Public Administration

Education

• Master’s student in Public Administration, University of Washington
• Bachelor’s of arts degree in Political Science, UW

Career Path

• Highline Public Schools
• Seattle Public Schools
• Washington State Attorney General’s Office
• Swedish Medical Center
• World Affairs Council
• Community Schools Collaboration
• Avanade, Inc

On Staying Motivated

“I can be a bit ambitious, and I continuously refine my goals through an iterative process. I always keep a milestone in mind and that combined with my family, friends, academic and professional work keeps me going.

“A big component of what keeps me going however is also my parents’ history and escaping to America from a war-torn country (Cambodia) that experienced genocide. Their resilience and ability to reach the United States, raise a family, and do it all with nothing and little support is an underlying context for everything I do; and if they can accomplish so much, I believe I have no excuse to not succeed.”

On Being a First Generation College Student

“Being the first in my family to attend college is a humbling and pioneering experience. I have learned and in some ways, am still learning, about the ins and outs of being in grad school and making a conscious effort to understand the enormous opportunities I have while here. I wouldn’t say I have pressure from the family, but I do feel and place upon myself an obligation to accomplish all that I can to be a role model for youth in the Cambodian community.”

On Choosing the UW for Graduate School

“To challenge myself to reach greater potential as preparation for a career in public service. I chose the UW because it offers a program in Public Administration in an area I hope to work some day and is a recognized school where graduates can be found working locally, as well as nationally and internationally.”

Area of Focus

“My area of focus is public management, performance management. I am making this my focus because I am passionate about public service and how government has the potential to not only serve citizens well, but be able to communicate that message. I believe government does not have to be synonymous with inefficiency.”

On the Importance of Mentoring

“I don’t have any formal mentors, but there are individuals who I meet with periodically who form an informal network from whom I can solicit feedback on my educational and career path and ideas that are percolating. This network is valuable for me because I appreciate a diversity of opinion and ideas. Being able to go to individuals who I know will challenge my ideas and challenge me to continuously refine and reaffirm my goals and ideas.”

Advice for Future Graduate Students

“Think outside the box and don’t feel limited by your undergraduate major. Graduate school can only enhance and build on what you already know; not replace what you know.”

Photo:  Sophia Agtarap