For native Texan and proud Longhorn Megan Ramos (MPAff ’28), public policy is a way to strengthen communities and make sure they work for the people who live in them.
Originally from Carrollton, Texas, Ramos stayed close to home for college, studying Urban Studies and Sustainability Studies at UT Austin, with a minor in Geography. From the beginning, she was drawn to how cities grow and change, and how those decisions impact people’s everyday lives.
“UT Austin has always stood out to me: its vibrant urban environment, strong academic programs and culture made it the perfect place to pursue Urban Studies,” she said. “After discovering my passion for urban sustainability during undergrad, the LBJ School’s dual degree program felt like the ideal next step.”
A pivotal moment for her came when she spoke before the Austin City Council in favor of the Home Options for Mobility and Equity (HOME) Initiative, a proposal to increase housing availability across the city. Standing alongside her classmates and seeing the initiative pass showed Ramos how powerful local engagement can be and sparked a passion for housing and land use policy.
She chose the LBJ School not only for its strong programs, but also for the opportunity to stay in Austin. The dual degree in Public Affairs and Community and Regional Planning was a perfect fit, letting her combine two areas she cares deeply about: planning and effective public policy.
At LBJ, Ramos hopes to get hands-on experience, whether that’s working with the City of Austin or at the Capitol. She’s excited to apply what she learns in the classroom to real-world projects that address issues such as housing affordability, climate resilience and support for underrepresented communities.
Even after four years in Austin, she’s looking forward to discovering more of what the city has to offer and seeing it through a new lens.
“I’m looking forward to exploring the city more deeply and building new connections with my MPAff cohort,” Ramos said. “I can’t wait for this next chapter.”
After graduation, she hopes to lead local work focused on sustainability, housing and creating opportunities for communities that have historically been excluded from city planning decisions. Whether she stays in Austin or ends up somewhere new, Ramos’s goal is simple—build better communities, one policy at a time.
Learn more about the Master of Public Affairs degree. Applications open September 1.