Avg. work experience for MPP applicant

<p>I am currently considering applying for a Masters in Public Policy this upcoming Fall. My GPA is above the 3.0 usually required, but below a 3.5 which seems to be the average for most programs I'm interested in. I'm hoping that my work experience will help push my application over the edge but I'm unsure how greatly experience is weighted and what type of experience is valued. Many of the programs websites explain an average of 3 years experience is the norm, but what is the quality of this experience? For example, is the typical work experience someone who canvassed for a political campaign or is it someone who has held an important position in an administration?</p>

<p>please bump
i want to do either MPP, MPA or MIA (for IR)</p>

<p>this insight would be great…i would love to know how much of an income to expect post graduation…i know thats not what this is asking exactly but its semi related</p>

<p>I could really use the answer to this question, if anyone could help! </p>

<p>Here’s a bit more background:
I am working working as a deputy organizer on a campaign, previously worked as an assistant to a consultant on a state-wide campaign, interned on capitol hill, and worked on three other campaigns in a smaller role. I graduated from University of Maryland, which actually has a Masters in Public Policy program in the top 10. I was originally planning on applying to grad school and therefore taking courses this Summer which I need before I attend. After the Summer, I hope to find another job however, the economy worries me over my chances of securing employment. With this campaign almost over, I am being offered another job through November. If I take this job I will not be able to apply till Fall of 2011 which means 3 years of post-college experience. SO what do I do?</p>

<p>My primary goal is to get into a top-ranked MPP program. I’m looking at Berkeley, USC, UCLA, UMD, Carnegie Mellon, Georgetown, Syracuse, and George Mason. Berkeley is first choice and I haven’t taken the GRE’s yet.</p>

<p>bump (10 char)</p>