Omar Gamboa (MPAff-DC ’25) always knew he wanted to make a difference. However, it wasn't until he attended an Open House at the LBJ School of Public Affairs that he realized just how impactful the program could be for him.
Gamboa spent seven years as an elementary school teacher, a profession he genuinely loved, but the growing challenges within the profession prompted him to reconsider his career path. “Most of the reasons teaching has become so difficult stem from policy. I decided I want to make a difference, and public affairs is the means for doing just that,” he shared.
This realization led him to shift his focus from teaching to policy reform, making a degree in public affairs the next logical step. His studies in English and Latin American Literature at The University of Texas at Austin had already exposed him to the connections between literature, social issues, history and politics, particularly in Latin American works. However, he had never directly explored public affairs until now, making this a significant shift in his pursuit to influence education policy.
Gamboa's interest in the LBJ School was sparked by a former colleague who had transitioned from teaching to enroll in the school. This motivated Gamboa to delve into LBJ's enduring impact. Discovering President Johnson's contributions, especially his initiatives in education from his time as a teacher, reinforced Omar's decision. "I had to apply," he expressed.
Attending the LBJ School’s Open House event was a turning point in his search for the right graduate program.
“The Open House showed me people in LBJ that reminded me of myself,” he explained. “I had the same mindset as some LBJers, and I decided it was the program for me.” Meeting current students and faculty gave him the confidence that his background fit well at the LBJ School. “Everyone I met has become a familiar face, and some have even become good friends!”
The Open House event solidified Gamboa’s decision to apply and broadened his perspective on the possibilities of a career in public affairs. Although his primary interest still lies in education policy, he has also become interested in other policy areas through classes, events and interactions within the school community. Now, as part of the D.C. Concentration, Gamboa is eager to work in the nation’s capital and explore opportunities in legislative offices, federal government roles, or policy research.
For prospective students, Gamboa offers one piece of advice: attend the Open House. "If you have doubts about your ability to get into LBJ or about its ability to build your public affairs or policy skills—this is the event for you."