Brian Pugh
Stennis Center for Public Service
Starkville, MS USA
"I would rather over prepare than not be ready."
Career Roadmap
Brian's work combines: Government, Numbers, and Working with Others
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Advice for getting started
There are multiple educational paths that can led to successful careers in public service. I'd recommend a degree that offers practical skills that can be used in your career of choice in addition to relevant work experience. The relevant work experience can come from volunteer opportunities or internships. Regardless of the degree selected, I'd recommend that students become excellent writers and communicators.
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Political Science
Mississippi State University
Bachelor's Degree
Public Policy & Public Administration
Mississippi State University
Certification
Public Financial Management
Georgia State University Center for State and Local Finance
Doctorate
Public Policy & Public Administration
Jackson State University
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
I studied political science at Mississippi State University.
2.
I intended to go to law school but ultimately decided to pursue a master’s in public policy instead because I wanted to teach and work in government rather than practice law.
3.
I started my career as a legislative budget analyst, where I learned the ins and outs of Mississippi's budgeting process, while earning my Ph.D. in public policy and administration.
4.
I became the finance director for the governor's office after my work as a budget analyst opened the door to a new opportunity.
5.
From there, I joined the Mississippi Department of Finance and Administration as deputy executive director and deputy state fiscal officer.
6.
At the same time, I began teaching at the university level, connecting students with leaders in government and public service.
7.
I then became executive director of the Stennis Center for Public Service, helping students explore careers in government and leadership.
8.
Today, I continue serving Mississippi by leading the Stennis Center, teaching at Mississippi State, and writing about public budgeting and public service.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Peers:
If you want to work for the federal government, you'll have to leave Mississippi. There aren't many opportunities here.
How I responded:
People told me I'd have to leave Mississippi to build the career I wanted. Instead of accepting that, I talked to people who had found success here, discovered opportunities I didn't know existed, and built a career serving the state I love.