How the McCourt School prepared an alumna for a White House communications role

Sneha Choudhary (MPP’24), the former White House’s associate director of regional media, was a force in tackling policy challenges with innovation. To the Office of Communications, she brought a powerful combination of passion, perseverance and an authentic desire to delve into the complexities of policymaking.

Her journey into public service began in 2018 amid the vibrant energy of Las Vegas during a midterm election. A graduate of Rutgers University, she led voter registration drives that ignited her passion for empowering communities through active civic engagement.

“I realized I loved it so much because it gave me the chance to represent people’s views, needs and our government, truly giving them a voice,” said Choudhary.

A move to New York in 2019 exposed her to the world of nonprofit fundraising, honing her skills in relationship-building and showcasing the transformative power of collective action. However, her enthusiasm for policy remained unwavering.

So, when the pandemic swept across the globe, Choudhary pivoted, applying to Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy and deferring her start date after acceptance to gain experience at a public relations agency. This decision helped secure her dream internship at the White House — a profound milestone for Choudhary.

Balancing the rigorous demands of a graduate program with the White House’s fast-paced environment was no easy feat. Despite moments of uncertainty, she found unwavering support from her professors, whom she credits for her success.

“I had the most fantastic professors who invested in me and made me feel seen,” said Choudhary.

Her final semester at the McCourt School was a whirlwind of accomplishments as she wrapped up her studies, served as senior editor of the Georgetown Public Policy Review and transitioned to her full-time role at the White House. As a staff member, Choudhary channeled her classroom learning into strategic media outreach, interview coordination and crisis communication, driven to amplify effective government programs and services and ensure equitable access to resources.

“I really loved that I didn’t know how my day would unfold,” reflected Choudhary. “It was impossible to plan anything, but it was exciting.”

Now that her time in the Biden-Harris Administration has concluded, Choudhary is contemplating a return to New York City to be closer to her family. Regardless of the path ahead, one thing remains certain: Choudhary’s resilience and determination have been forged through the challenges she has overcome — and the invaluable benefits of being a McCourt School graduate.

“I’m just grateful,” said Choudhary. “Georgetown being in DC, the weight that carries in internships and federal opportunities is immense.”