One of the most exciting things about SPIA's Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy program is meeting students who already care deeply about the world around them before they even arrive on campus.
Earlier this year, prospective student Wyatt Ruzanic shared what drew him to public policy, Pittsburgh, and the kind of impact he hopes to make in the future. Now, he’s officially committed to Pitt as a pre-public policy student in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, with plans to graduate from SPIA with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy in 2030.
As Pitt’s application opens again in a few months on August 1, his reflections feel like a reminder of what draws students to public policy in the first place: curiosity, purpose, and the belief that communities can be better than they are today.
What first got you interested in public policy, and why do you think it’s important?
Throughout my life, I have always been interested in politics. Recently, two things have expanded my desire to study public policy. First is my experience volunteering during the 2022 midterm election and the 2024 presidential election. The work I was able to do gave me hands-on experience working to understand and explain policy positions to potential voters.
Secondly, some of the courses I have been able to take in high school have deepened my understanding of our government and its structure. I also have learned how critical it is to have exceptional policies to maintain a thriving and equitable society.
What stood out to you most during your visit to our school?
The number one thing that stood out to me was the friendliness of everyone I met during my visit to SPIA. Their knowledge about the program and their passion about SPIA and Pitt was exciting and contagious.
Why does the Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy program at Pitt feel like the right fit for you?
This program at Pitt combines two of my main passions: public policy and Pittsburgh.
I have been interested in politics and policy for as long as I can remember. In addition, I love the city of Pittsburgh and I want to be a part of helping it become the best it can possibly be.
Studying public policy at Pitt will give me unique opportunities to work locally, statewide, and nationally to further my knowledge base and hone my skills.
What kinds of issues or topics are you most passionate about changing in your community or the world?
My priorities policy-wise are affordable housing, climate change, and food insecurity. These issues can be approached on both micro and macro policy levels as they impact local and global communities.
What advice would you give to other high school students who are starting to think about college and what they want to study?
I would advise high school students to take advantage of every opportunity they have to explore what interests them. To take that a step further, I would also encourage them to work at creating opportunities where none seem to exist.
As high school students, we have to advocate for ourselves, and there’s nothing better than gaining experience in a field that you are interested in.