Essay On Why I Chose To Pursue This Program

I am excited for the opportunity to apply to the Public Affairs doctoral program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). I had the pleasure of speaking with a colleague, Dr. Doris Watson, Associate Dean of the College of Education, about my aspirations to receive a doctoral degree and she encouraged me to look at UNLV’s Public Affairs program. The more I researched the program, the more I felt as though it would be a perfect fit for me. When thinking about the reasons why I have chosen to pursue my doctoral degree I reflect on a speech President Obama gave at Barnard College’s 2012 Commencement, stating “Don’t just get involved. Fight for your seat at the table. Better yet, fight for a seat at the head of the table.” Personally, I have fought and earned my way too many seats in life despite the odds. I was raised by a single mother who shared with me her belief that education was the key to success. While I had not figured out my exact career path within the education field, I surmised that to reach any tables I wanted, I needed to obtain a post-secondary degree.

I would like to explore these while considering the intersections of race, gender, and other social identities. For example, on Thursday, March 22, 2018, Clark County School District (CCSD) Board voted 4-to-3 to move forward on developing gender diversity policies. This vote was made possible by activists, students, and families committed to protecting gender diverse students. Yet I am curious to know if racial, religious, or other social identities were considered when creators of this policy sought support? While the policy will directly impact K-12 schools, what future implications does it have for UNLV? How were CCSD teachers and administrators involved or informed of the creation of this policy? Which voices were heard from which seats and