As City Manager of the City of Batavia, New York, Rachael Tabelski ’08 uses the skills and knowledge she developed through Brockport’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program to serve her community and lead local government initiatives.
“My internship to complete my master’s degree assisted me in securing a job immediately after my graduation.”
Rachael Tabelski
Tabelski’s path to public service began with an interest in government administration and law. After completing her bachelor’s degree in public safety, she enrolled in Brockport’s MPA program, where she quickly became immersed in the coursework and opportunities available through the program.
“After I completed my bachelor’s in public safety, I decided I wanted to go into government administration or law. I enrolled in SUNY Brockport’s program and was accepted,” said Tabelski. “After the first year, I decided to continue my degree program and put off going to law school because I enjoyed the coursework so much.”
Beyond the classroom, the MPA program provides students with opportunities to gain real-world experience through internships for credit. During her graduate journey, Tabelski completed an internship with a New York State Assemblymember, an experience that helped shape her career path in local government and economic development.
“I learned about government at all levels and understood the interplay of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government,” said Tabelski. “This internship was integral to moving my career in local government and economic development forward.”
The hands-on experience Tabelski gained through her internship, combined with the skills developed through the MPA program, helped prepare her for a successful career after graduation.
“My internship to complete my master’s degree assisted me in securing a job immediately after my graduation,” said Tabelski. “Those tools and lessons I still use today as the City Manager of the City of Batavia, New York.”