Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I have a concern about the program or administration and could use help from the PSGA. What’s the best way to communicate with the PSGA?

While we’re happy to speak informally with you about your concerns, we are best able to represent your issues to the administration if you document these in writing. Please email

How are representatives selected for the PSGA?

Two students from the entering class are elected in October to serve a six-month term as a PSGA representative, until regular elections are held in April for all eight representatives. The president of Graduate Women in Public Policy (GWIPP) and the chair of the Diversity Committee serve as ex officio members of the PSGA (with full voting rights). Students are strongly encouraged to nominate your most motivated colleagues to serve as PSGA representatives. There are opportunities for all students to become involved with the PSGA—whether by becoming a representative, serving on a committee, or participating in events.

What is the student survey?

The student survey was designed by the PSGA in collaboration with the MSPP administration as a means for better understanding MSPP student needs and characteristics. The survey results help the PSGA to focus its efforts in working with the administration to improve the program. This year’s student survey will be administered during the fall semester and will include topics such as factors influencing students’ decision to attend MSPP, academic offerings, available resources, and student activities. Click here to see results from last year’s student survey.

What types of events does the PSGA organize?

The PSGA hosts periodic Town Hall and Meet the Deans meetings, organizes social events and service projects. We strongly encourage students to develop their own projects, events, and gatherings!

Town Hall and Meet the Deans Meetings

The Town Hall and Meet the Deans meetings provide a venue to update the student body on PSGA activities. PSGA members share information about current PSGA initiatives, give updates from meetings with MSPP's administration, answer questions, and engage students in discussions of importance to the School's community. These meetings are also a time in which committees and sub-committees can interact and formulate projects/events for the year.

Social Events

Throughout the year, the PSGA hosts social gatherings ranging from informal happy hours to larger scale events, including a Quiz Night fundraiser in the fall and a Prom in the spring. (Check out pictures from last year’s Quiz Night and Prom in the PSGA photo gallery!) The intent of these events is to maintain relationships built throughout the academic year between students, faculty, and staff, and of course, to have fun!

Community Service Projects

The PSGA helps coordinate volunteer participation in various community service projects throughout the year. Students are encouraged to contact the PSGA with suggestions for service activities or local service organizations.

The Unofficial Student Handbook is also a valuable resource for additional questions you have about school and life around College Park and DC.