Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, Ramya joined UVA Batten as an early Accelerated MPP student in 2017 while completing her undergraduate degree in Computer Science at UVA. After graduation, she began her professional career as a Technology Consultant at EY (formerly Ernst & Young). Today, she serves as the Associate Director of Social Impact & Technology at APCO Worldwide. Get to know more about Ramya below!
Why did you choose UVA Batten?
- I chose Batten because of its interdisciplinary approach, particularly because it took a psychology-based lens to leadership. It also gave me the opportunity to concentrate in international development and humanitarian response through its electives.
How would you describe the Batten community?
- The Batten community is very tightknit on Grounds. I was surrounded by a strong network of support while in the program, with many avenues to explore interests. I appreciated the camaraderie.
How were you able to explore your policy interests while at Batten?
- I was more focused on the global development/humanitarian arena. The ability to pair my technical background with Batten helped me secure my United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs internship (which later became my APP client).
What’s one way the MPP helped you grow personally or professionally?
- Through the program, you get to work with people collectively who have a very diverse, wide range of professional and life experience, even before I entered the professional world. Also, I appreciated the exposure I had through the Tri-Sector Fellowship Program, a leadership development program hosted by the UVA Law School, Darden School, and the Batten School.
What course or academic experience was a highlight of your time at Batten?
- Research Methods and Data Analysis [RMDA] brought a rigor in thinking. Sally Hudson was also an incredible professor. But I most loved the psychology courses. I still think about the “standing on the balcony” versus dance floor metaphor when zooming out for strategic thinking.
Beyond academics, what are some other memories that stand out from your time at Batten?
- Several memories stand out. One was serving as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for Global Humanitarian course with Professor Gelsdorf. Another was the Tri-Sector Leadership Program. I recall conversations with many former/current c-suite folks, including the former CEO of Amtrak. The exposure was incredible. Lastly, the DC trip where we went tubing and also hosted a panel at the Darden building in DC. That was really critical for developing stronger relationships with our cohort. And, of course, our Batten formal!
What piece of advice would you give to a student considering Batten?
- Consider how it can widen your aperture to opportunities post-graduation. Especially in a period where the future of the workforce is shifting rapidly, sharpening skills like critical thinking, judgement, and emotional intelligence are more critical than ever. Batten’s interdisciplinary approach – grounded in psychology – really helps prepare the workforce for tomorrow, no matter the sector someone chooses to pursue (e.g., government/public, private, nonprofit, NGO).
