By: Nathan Anderson
Trevor Hamilton's path to public service began with a simple realization: he wanted a career centered on helping others. That insight led him to pursue a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he developed the leadership, policy, and community engagement skills needed to make a meaningful impact.
Originally from Ellwood City, PA, Hamilton has lived in several states over the course of his life before settling in Alabama nearly two decades ago. His diverse experiences have shaped his perspective and ultimately influenced his decision to pursue a
career in public service.
"My journey to graduate school began with a conversation with a friend that helped me realize how much fulfillment I found in meeting people and helping others," Hamilton said. "At the time, the work I was doing was not meeting that need, and I came to the realization that I wanted to become the change I hoped to see in the world."
That realization motivated Hamilton to pursue graduate education and seek a career path that aligned with his values. Having previously earned his undergraduate degree at UAB, he knew the university would provide the flexibility and support he needed while he continued working full-time.
Hamilton selected the MPA program due to its broad and practical approach to preparing students for careers in public service. He was drawn to the opportunity to gain skills applicable across nonprofit and government organizations while developing a deeper understanding of leadership and public administration.
One of his favorite experiences came during a nonprofit management elective course, where he and his classmates developed a nonprofit concept aimed at connecting youth from urban communities with parks and nature preserves.
"My group developed a nonprofit concept focused on bringing youth from urban areas to parks and nature preserves for educational experiences and outdoor activities they might not otherwise have access to because of distance or resources," he said. "It was rewarding to work on something that combined environmental appreciation, education, and community impact.
"By the end of the project, we all agreed that if one of us ever decided to create the organization, the others would want to be involved," he said.
While classroom projects helped strengthen his professional skills, Hamilton says the relationships he built throughout the program were equally valuable. Faculty mentorship and connections with classmates broadened his perspective and enriched his graduate school experience.
The Graduate School also played a significant role in preparing him for the next phase of his career.
"The program challenged me to think critically about leadership, policy, and how organizations can better serve their communities," Hamilton said.
Through networking opportunities and interactions with alumni and public service professionals, Hamilton gained valuable insight into the realities of public administration and developed a clearer vision for his future.
"The experiences and mentorship I received throughout the program strengthened both my confidence and my professional goals," he said.
As he reflects on his graduate school journey, Hamilton encourages current and future students to take advantage of opportunities beyond the classroom.
"Make the most of the resources and events available whenever possible," he said. "The experiences you are able to participate in can lead to meaningful ideas, relationships, and future opportunities.
"Hearing different viewpoints from classmates gave me a greater appreciation for experiences that I may not have initially understood or agreed with," Hamilton said. "Those conversations became one of the most valuable parts of my graduate experience."
Hamilton graduated with his MPA this spring and is now preparing to relocate to New Mexico after being selected for the ICMA Local Government Management Fellowship, a yearlong opportunity that will allow him to work alongside county leadership while gaining experience across multiple government departments.
He hopes the fellowship will serve as a foundation for a career in local government and public policy, with a particular interest in economic mobility, transportation, and community development.