Gia Canepa – a two-time FSU graduate with a Master of Public Administration – landed her first postgraduate job as a data specialist with The Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County.
The role allows her to assist case managers and conduct data analysis and research on behalf of their projects focused on the foster care system in the county and juvenile representation.
The Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County is a non-profit organization providing civil legal advice, representation, and education to disadvantaged members of the community. Their services include free legal advice and the administration of support programs.
Canepa earned two degrees from FSU: a B.S. in Criminology with a minor in Social Work in Fall 2021, and Master of Public Administration (MPA) in Spring 2023.
As a first-generation college student, the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) provided her with an abundance of academic guidance and support.
“The CARE program pushes its students to recognize the value of education and real-world experience,” Canepa said. “Without their support and assistance, I’m not sure I would have had the opportunity to pursue a graduate degree immediately after graduating.”
Throughout her undergraduate and graduate studies, she was heavily involved in directed-independent research focused on state policies surrounding social justice issues such as human trafficking and juvenile delinquency.
“Because of my incredible experience at FSU and the promotion and inclusion of unique programs such as CARE, I want to devote my degree and career to assisting other underprivileged youth populations,” she said. “The research I was able to conduct while attending FSU has empowered my professional goals and aspirations.”
Canepa had the unique opportunity to enroll in directed-independent study in collaboration with Tom Blomberg, Ph.D., the Dean of FSU’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice and Sheldon L. Messinger Professor of Criminology, along with his cohort of faculty researchers, exploring the impacts of education programs in juvenile detention facilities.
After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from FSU, she was invited to continue her education in the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy’s Master of Public Administration program.
When asked what advice she would share with current students, Canepa said, “FSU is such a great, diverse example of community and support.” She continued, “Students should absolutely prioritize forming relationships with the faculty and staff within their colleges. Dr. Berry and Dr. Berlan of the Askew School were amazing resources of education and guidance for me.”
For more information about FSU’s Master of Public Administration program, visit coss.fsu.edu/askew/future-students/mpa-admissions.