SPAA Student Spotlight: Cassandra Izquierdo (BA'25; MPA'26)
Full Name: Cassandra Izquierdo
Hometown: Garfield, NJ
SPAA BA Grad Month/Year: May 2025
SPAA MPA Grad Month/Year: May 2026
What drew you to SPAA and to the field of public service?
I have a passion for helping my community and creating a positive, lasting impact. What drew me to SPAA was the proximity to a diverse community and the many opportunities to learn, to network, and to make a change.
What do you hope to accomplish with your degree from SPAA?
I want to be a part of a nonprofit organization that promotes change and advocacy within the childhood cancer community.
How would you describe your experience as a student at SPAA and Rutgers-Newark?
My experience at SPAA and Rutgers-Newark has been nothing short of amazing. I have received so much support from the SPAA staff and faculty, and I met my closest friends at Rutgers-Newark. SPAA has given me opportunities I never thought possible and helped me connect with professionals in my field who have now become my mentors.
If you could describe Rutgers SPAA in one word, what would it be?
Enriching
What makes SPAA feel unique compared to other programs or schools you considered?
There is a strong sense of closeness between the students and faculty. The school's size makes it easier to connect with faculty and staff when seeking support and career advice. The Accelerated MPA program is unique and was the deciding factor in my decision to choose this school.
What have you learned from SPAA that you'll carry into your career?
Continuously improving my professional development skills and growing my social capital are some things I've learned from SPAA that I will carry into my career.
What is one lesson, class, or experience that has impacted you the most in your time here?
The servant leadership course had the most significant impact on me during my time here. My time in that course gave me many opportunities to reflect on the managers and leaders in my life and taught me the importance of being a servant leader and how it can make a greater impact within an organization and community.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I see myself in an executive or senior role within the development department of a childhood cancer nonprofit organization.
How do you see yourself carrying forward the legacy of SPAA after graduation?
I see myself carrying forward SPAA's legacy after graduation through my dedication and passion for the people I serve, uplifting those around me, and providing empathy and support to underserved communities.
How do faculty and mentors here inspire or challenge you to think differently?
Whenever I have a conversation with a faculty member or mentor, I leave with new insights and perspectives on the issue I am facing. Something I noticed is that they always ask questions to get to the bottom of why my purpose exists.
What excites you most about the future of public service?
A new generation is beginning to inspire and create change, whether locally or nationally. Before, it was harder to reach a broad audience and make a significant impact, but now, through social media and emerging technology, things can change rapidly, and that's exciting.
Why do you think public service matters, especially now?
Right now, there is a lot of uncertainty in the world, and people are scared. Public service is essential, especially now, because it supports vulnerable populations and brings a sense of ease. It is also necessary now because things are changing so rapidly, and public service leaders are the ones who will bring clarity and ensure the people and the community are first.
Anything else you wish to add?
I am so thankful for my experience and time at Rutgers SPAA. I learned so much and met some great people during my time here. The faculty and staff at SPAA want nothing but greatness for their students, and they make sure everyone is supported in some way.