Amy Hernandez
![Amy Hernandez](../../_Files/images/student profiles/amy-morales-large.jpg)
GRADUATE, Master of Public Administration
Amy Hernandez was born and raised in El Paso and received a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech University in 2008. Except for a brief stint in Austin during the legislative session, she has remained in El Paso.
Amy currently works for a State Representative as his District Director and has been in this position for about ten years. Prior to this, she worked for a State Senator and City representative. She has been in public administration for about 15 years and absolutely loves it.
Amy enjoys exploring new ideas, meeting new people and helping them and exploring new ideas. She graduated this May. Congratulations, Amy!
Why she enrolled in the program:
One of my life goals was to obtain a master's degree. While I worked for the City, I took my GRE and was going to apply for the MPA program. Shortly after that, I learned I was pregnant, so I waited. COVID motivated me to return to school, and here I am, ready to graduate. I never thought this day would come!
Her experience with online learning:
Yes, this was my first experience with online learning. I finished my bachelor's so long ago that online school wasn’t as common and accessible as it is now. I firmly believe that having the ability to take classes online was one reason I could commit to the program. I have a full-time job, I am a mom and wife, and being able to work at my own pace with guidance from a professor was great for someone with a fast-paced life.
On how this degree has played a part in her employment:
This degree has taught me new things I wasn’t familiar with, which has helped me develop new ideas at work that I believe can benefit the public. Additionally, it gives me the confidence to know I can throw myself into something new and push myself to thrive.
On whether she has the support she needs:
I am very fortunate to have a lot of support. My husband will always pick up where I leave off and ensure everything or everyone is cared for while I have to attend class or complete homework and projects.
My parents have also been a great support system that has enabled me to continue with my degree. My children motivate me to keep working towards my goals and regularly tell me how are proud they are of me. I have been very fortunate to have a wonderful advisor who is very welcoming and answers all of my questions. I have had some very helpful professors who want to see me succeed and I feel that is one of the most important things needed for students who have not been in school for a very long time.
What she would say to prospective online students:
Prospective students should know that there will be challenges, but if they are open and honest about what they are dealing with, they will be surprised by how much people around them want them to succeed. Open dialogue with professors and advisors will help tremendously. Ask any and all questions!
On whether she would enroll in this program again if she had to do things over:
I certainly would do it all over again. I have learned so much and even made new friends. I have been challenged and had to come out of my comfort zone. I always felt supported at UTEP and that gave me the motivation I needed to keep going.