SSI is a needs based program that helps disabled, blind, and older Americans along with those in financial need. My job as a Claims Representative is to take a claim and determine an applicant's financial eligibility, refer cases that meet this eligibility to a medical determination board and then adjudicate the claim. After clients are determined to be eligible, I work with them to ensure they get their benefits promptly.

After graduating from undergrad I was unsure as to what to do next. The MPA program started me on the path to what I really wanted to do in terms of my career goal to become a management official in a public organization. I love working for SSA and would probably not be with the agency if it wasn't for the MPA program. The MPA program gave me the tools needed to not only obtain my current position but also to advance in the agency. If it wasn't for the MPA program I wouldn't have the knowledge and understanding of public administration that I need to perform successfully in the public sector.

Donald Miles recently joined the staff of USC Aiken's Institutional Effectiveness Office as a statistical and research analyst. A 2004 USC Aiken political science graduate, Miles was active in a variety of organizations and programs while a student.

After enrolling in the Masters of Public Administration program at Augusta State University in the fall of 2004, Miles served as a graduate assistant in the program, working for the director. He also completed an internship in Columbia County , Ga., working in the Commissioner's Office.

After graduating in May, Miles worked in the Advertising Department at The Augusta Chronicle as a multimedia sales executive. Miles resides in Aiken, where he is studying and training in the ministry at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church . He is actively involved in church and will conduct his first initial sermon on July 8, 2007. In addition, he is a member of the USC Aiken Alumni Council and the University's Inclusion Advisory Committee.

Each of my professors in the MPA Program at ASU has left lasting imprints on my education.  Their valuable insights and knowledge have been very helpful in my efforts to find and locate a job opportunity such as this one.  I continue to learn more and more everyday.  I must acknowledge that it is because of the sound preparation that I received through the MPA program at ASU that I feel that I was able to make a successful transition into this career path.

The MPA program at ASU has been the best career move I have ever made.  Not only did I gain valuable knowledge and skills, but the degree itself has opened doors that allowed me to advance in my career and greatly increase my income. 

The small class sizes allow for interaction and discussion that you won't find in larger programs.  In addition, the professors know you by name and care about your success in the program.  I have never regretted the time spent at ASU in the MPA program and I continue to utilize former MPA classmates as resources in their fields of expertise.