“I’m particularly interested in using data and numbers to answer key questions—How can education policies contribute to or exacerbate social inequality? Does your school determine your outcome?”

“I want to spearhead policies that support asset management and wealth building in underrepresented communities, especially for women of color. As a woman of color, you have less societal support, but so much more to fight for.”

“My policy interests may evolve, but my desire to do government work, focus on evidence-based policy, and uplift marginalized communities won’t change.”

“What especially drew me to the DPSS program was the ability to analyze the implications of decisions that affect others.”

PhD Candidate Mariella Gonzales explains why she chose to pursue her Master of Arts in Public Policy with Certificate in Research Methods

Matsumoto aims to teach and research topics that lie at the intersection of public policy and business.