Four members of the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs community have been chosen as Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF) finalists. Second-year student Maria Salazar (MID/MPH ’24) joins recent graduates Alexis Boytim (MPA ’23), Uchenna Mbawuike (MPPM ’22), and Laura Short (MPIA ’22) on the prestigious list, the latest in a long line of Pitt alumni who have launched their public service careers through the program.
Finalists now have 12 months to secure a two-year appointment as a fellow, a full-time, paid position in a federal agency that aligns with their interests and career goals. While all fellows enjoy leadership training and hands-on experience as part of their appointments, a significant number will also go on to secure a permanent position within the federal government after their time in the PMF ends.
For Mbawuike, who currently serves as a Mid-Level Management Analyst for USAID, the PMF offers a bridge between her professional experience and future goals.
“Having dedicated my professional journey to community-focused development, data-driven decision-making, and policy management, the PMF offers a platform to further contribute to impactful initiatives on a broader scale,” she said. “I see it as an unparalleled opportunity to leverage my skills and experiences to serve the public good effectively at the federal level.”
Each finalist credited their time at Pitt for preparing them to take on this new challenge, mentioning benefits like the support from career services and advisors while applying to the program, insight received from professors who have previously worked in the federal government themselves, and the influence of a culture focused on continuous learning and professional growth that is fostered within the school.
Boytim also drew a connection between the spring DC Career Trip and her decision to pursue the PMF. She hopes to secure an appointment working on climate and energy policy, something she saw first-hand as a student attending site visits during the annual event. "I think the DC Career Trip in particular solidified my decision to apply for the PMF," shared Boytim. "It was an inspiring experience to meet alumni, learn more about the amazing work they are doing, and imagine myself doing something similar someday.”