MPA Online Spotlight: Anahi Salazar-Lopez
1. Tell us a bit about yourself, what inspired you to pursue an MPA and what areas of public service interest you most?
My name is Anahi Salazar-Lopez, and I proudly call Phoenix home. I currently work at the College of Medicine Phoenix as a Business Administrator and serve as the Interim Executive Assistant to the Dean. In this role, I support leadership and daily operations within an academic
medical institution, which has given me valuable insight into how large public organizations function. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology and have worked across all three sectors throughout my career, including behavioral health, immigration law, and now higher education. Each experience has shaped my understanding of how public systems directly affect individuals and families. From supporting clients navigating mental health services to assisting individuals through the immigration process, I have seen firsthand how policy and administration influence everyday lives. What inspired me to pursue my Master of Public Administration is the impact that public organizations at the federal, state, and local levels have on our daily lives. These institutions shape access to healthcare, education, infrastructure, and essential services. I believe it is important to understand how these systems operate and to serve as a responsible and ethical steward within them. As both a public servant and a resident who relies on these services, I feel a strong responsibility to contribute to their improvement. What interests me most about public service is its ability to help communities move forward in meaningful ways. Strong leadership and thoughtful policy implementation can expand opportunities and improve quality of life. Living and working in Phoenix has reinforced my interest in how local institutions can drive growth and create lasting impact for diverse communities.
2. Can you share a research topic, project, or class that has been particularly meaningful or challenging for you so far? / 3. What skills or lessons have you gained through the MPA Online program, and how have these experiences shaped your personal and professional goals?
PA 508: Public Budgeting has been the most meaningful course for me so far. It has broken down why governments at all levels make the decisions they do and the financial resources they rely on to carry out their responsibilities. Learning how to develop and analyze a government budget has given me a clearer understanding of how priorities are set and how public funds are allocated to serve communities effectively. The course has also challenged me to think more critically about how government operates. We often expect public institutions to move quickly, but I now better understand why there are necessary layers in decision making. Multiple stakeholders bring different perspectives, and while approaches may vary, the goal is often to benefit the public. This has reshaped how I view policymakers and institutional leadership. These experiences have strengthened my professional goal of growing into a leadership role within higher education.
4. What advice would you give to new MPA Online students about getting the most out of the program?
My advice to new MPA Online students is to stay organized and be proactive from the beginning. A lot of us are working full time and chose the online program for flexibility, but that flexibility still requires discipline. I suggest reviewing each syllabus early and putting all the due dates into your calendar right away. It really helps you stay ahead and manage your time better throughout the semester. I also recommend not going through the program alone. Even though it’s online, try to connect with at least one other student in your class. Having someone to talk through assignments or share ideas with makes a big difference. It keeps you motivated and makes the experience feel more collaborative and less overwhelming.