Student Profile: Maya Cousins, MPP Class of 2027

“My policy interests are education and higher education accessibility,” said Maya Cousins, MPP Class of 2027, “because education is not only empowering—it's something you can never take away from someone once they have it.”

After completing her double major in psychology and sociology with an emphasis on criminal justice at Colorado State University, Cousins participated in City Year, an organization with the goal of helping high school students stay in school and on track to graduate. “I knew I wanted to continue exploring education and education outcomes, and through City Year I was able to serve at a school not too far from the high school I went to. It felt great being able to give back to Denver Public Schools, because I don’t think I would have gotten where I am if it wasn't for the teachers and support I had there.”

While at City Year, Cousins also had the opportunity to create and support two after-school programs. “I'm a big DIY person and a science nerd, so I implemented the DIY Club, which focused on developing self-agency and fostering creativity, and the Science Club, which engaged students in science outside of the classroom and supported understanding science in a real-life context.”

Cousins next began working at College Track, an educational nonprofit focusing on college completion for first-generation and underserved students. “I really appreciated how comprehensive College Track was. They supported students from ninth grade through the end of college and focused on the whole student—not just academics. Home life, mental health, personal interests—they really took the time to understand each student as a person.”

However, Cousins knew she wanted to make an even greater impact. “"I envision myself continuing in the nonprofit education space, and in order to be a data-driven leader, I need to develop my data and analytics skills.” 

When exploring graduate programs, Cousins said, The University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy MPP spoke to her interests and future plans.

“The science nerd in me got really excited when reading about how Harris teaches public policy—it was one of the most methodical, well-rounded programs I found. I’m looking forward to immersing myself in the Harris experience because I'm at a point in my life where I'm ready to appreciate the challenge of academic rigor.”

When asked what inspires her, Cousins said, “It’s a combination of my own internal compass and my mom. She always stressed the importance of education to us growing up, even before she pivoted to working in education. She now works in the family liaison side of the Denver Public Schools, bridging the gap between the school and the family.”

As for advice for prospective students, Cousins summed it up in two words: “Ask questions. Whether it's the staff you'll be interacting with while you're on campus, other students, or the admissions team, asking questions can really help you figure out if the school's a good fit for you.”