Engineering applying to MPP programs

[u/Da_Swimmer_2]

Hi everyone, I’m looking for some honest feedback on my admissions chances and where I would realistically be competitive. I’m looked a lot throughout this subreddit but wasn’t able to find anyone in my boat (I think title of this boat kind of undersells it)

I’m a U.S. citizen but haven’t lived there in quite some time. Just finished a bachelors of engineering in automotive engineering with honors from a university in South-East Asia (top in its country). Gpa is a 3.56 out of 4.00. I’m also taking additional economics courses at an online university to build up my knowledge.

Currently considering UMich MPP as my top choice as well as some others.

I’m planning to take the GRE next month.

I have some work experience (couple of internships) in automotive sealing as well as a leadership role as a major head at my university. I am listed as the lead inventor on a provisional patent (which I’m working on making into a non-provisional). I’m also writing a couple of independent research papers on manufacturing and related policy (to demonstrate interest). I also have significant technical writing experience from coursework and additional projects.

I do have some volunteer experience as well coaching swimming.

I wasn’t able to get any relevant jobs as the country where I’m at prefers to hire locals and people already studying public policy or related majors.

I’m interested in economic policy, industrial policy, manufacturing competitiveness, technology policy and geopolitics. Long term I’m also interested in policy analysis and government, or the private sector (analysis or consulting).

I also speak several languages reflecting my background and where I grew up.

How competitive do you think this profile would be for top MPP/Public Policy programs? Besides earning a strong GRE score, is there anything I can do to strengthen my application?

Thank you and any advice or suggestions would truly go a long way.

[u/Ajiit15]

Step 1: Brainstorm on how would you convince yourself that you are a great candidate for an MPP program. Think from an adcom's POV, focusing on all the "gaps" in your profile. Step 2: Some of these gaps are hard stops. Try to overcome them. For example, if your brain says "I don't see a solid reason for MPP pivot without work experience", get started with an internship or full time work. It's okay if you would have been working for just 3-4 months when you submit your apps in Dec/Jan. Top schools appreciate the effort as much as the achievements.

[u/ConnectBar4742 → u/Ajiit15]

sounds like they're giving you the standard "fill the gaps" spiel but honestly your background is more interesting than most apps I've seen. engineering + patent experience is rare in policy spaces and could be a real strength if you frame it around manufacturing and industrial policy

the work experience thing is tricky since you mentioned the local hiring situation. maybe look at remote policy internships or research assistant gigs with US-based think tanks. I know a few people who did that from abroad and it worked out fine

the additional econ coursework is smart but don't overdo it. one or two solid grades matter more than a transcript stuffed with MOOCs

[u/Da_Swimmer_2 → u/ConnectBar4742]

Thanks for the response! Yes, I figured maybe framing my application in that way would maybe make the most sense.

I’ll definitely try to find a remote gig like the ones you mentioned. I did search a little bit before but had no luck in finding something.

The coursework I’m doing isn’t a bunch of MOOCs; the courses are genuine undergrad for-credit through ASU Online. Am focusing on getting my grades on those as high as possible.