Alumni Spotlight
Jacob Rightnar (MPP 2018)
Why did you choose UCR’s MPP program?
I was interested in UC Riverside’s emphasis on gathering students from very different policy areas and the variety of policy perspectives provided by the staff. I knew that the program would provide opportunities for professional growth and branching out of my own comfort zone.
How has your policy background helped out/contributed to your medical studies?
Studying policy helped me utilize critical thinking in applying broad policy mandates to local transportation projects as well as analysing community transportation needs and acting as a mediary between local governments and the state. I also found that the ability to conduct research is highly important for state jobs and is required for most projects.
How do you interact and/or implement policy in your current role?
I incorporate statewide policy goals into regional transportation plans, and much of our work is in interpreting how small projects can work towards statewide goals. For example, I am a part of the process that determines how local transportation development addresses the need to reduce vehicle miles traveled in response to climate change. Me and my department also provide policy feedback in relation to our district, to the state government in Sacramento.