Jazmin Thomas’s experiences as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and as a Firefighter for the New York City Fire Department helped develop her passion for emergency management. Since enrolling in the Emergency Management program at USC Bovard College, however, her perspective has expanded to include public administration.
Public service has always been at the core of Thomas’s career aspirations. Guided by her passion for public service and the desire to make a difference in underserved communities—particularly communities of those with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and other vulnerable populations—Thomas is blending her field experience with an academic focus to promote inclusive emergency planning strategies and policies. Thomas is currently working toward a doctorate in public administration at West Chester University. She is also developing a nonprofit organization to help connect vulnerable populations with emergency management resources and support.
In this interview, Thomas reflects on the program’s rigorous yet rewarding coursework, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and the invaluable connections she made in her cohort. She also shares how the program’s topics have overlapped with her professional experiences and how she continues to advocate for inclusive emergency management strategies.
What initially sparked your interest in emergency management?
My passion for emergency management evolved from my first-hand experience as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Firefighter with the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Responding to emergencies on the front lines exposed me to the crucial importance of strategic planning, coordination, and community engagement in mitigating the impact of crises, particularly in underserved communities.
When you were researching graduate programs, what stood out to you about USC’s Master of Science in Emergency Management?
I was drawn to USC Bovard College because of its unique blend of practical application, equity-focused approaches, and diverse community of faculty and students. The flexible blended learning schedules, combining synchronous and asynchronous elements, align perfectly with my demanding work schedule and family responsibilities as a mother of two.
What did you enjoy most about the MSEM program?
I appreciated the program’s real-world applicability. Throughout the program, each lesson connected to actual emergency scenarios, making it easy to see how the coursework translated into effective response strategies. As a firefighter and emergency responder in New York City, I could relate to many course topics and engage in discussions that merged my experience and practice with the faculty.
How did you balance classes and assignments with other responsibilities outside of school?
The program at USC Bovard College was rigorous, which made it worthwhile for me. Emergency management isn’t a field where you can afford to cut corners; the program went above and beyond to prove that. Earning my Master of Science in Emergency Management while balancing my responsibilities as a firefighter, mother, wife, and professional required discipline and time management. This program showed me that I must give myself grace while leaning into organizational skills and rely on my support system to stay on top of my studies.
What was your experience like working with fellow students?
My cohort contained professionals with diverse backgrounds, which was one of the best parts of the program. I learned much from peers in different sectors, from public health and safety to cybersecurity. I’ve kept in touch with several of them, and those connections continue to be a great resource in my career. We speak daily for the most part, and I have learned to give myself grace when it comes to emergencies. Always remember to put on your mask first, as they say on the airplane. You can’t save a life if you are unable to function.
What is one of your professional achievements you are most proud of?
Advocating for emergency management strategies that support vulnerable populations, particularly those living with chronic illnesses like multiple sclerosis (MS). Ensuring that emergency plans are inclusive and consider accessibility needs is something I’m deeply passionate about. I am working on my nonprofit, MS Empower Resilience, which will assist individuals and caregivers with MS, providing them with emergency management resource tools and support within vulnerable populations.
What is the biggest challenge you faced on the job after graduating, and how did you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges was navigating the gap between policy and practice. Understanding best practices in emergency management is one thing, but implementing them in real-world bureaucratic and operational settings isn’t always straightforward. I overcame it by leveraging my network, continuing to learn, and persevering in pushing for practical, effective solutions. I am currently back in school to obtain my doctorate in public administration at West Chester University to accomplish this.
What qualities or traits do you think make someone successful in this program?
Adaptability, discipline, time management, and a genuine passion for resilience. Effective emergency management demands a unique blend of critical thinking, high pressure, decision-making, and a commitment to ongoing learning. Individuals who embody these traits are best equipped to excel in this field.
How do you see the field of emergency management evolving as a whole?
As the field of emergency management evolves, I see a greater focus on building resilience and promoting disaster risk reduction. This will involve working with stakeholders within the community to identify and mitigate hazards and to develop plans and policies that support long-term resilience and sustainability. Emergency managers must harness the power of technology innovation to streamline emergency response and recovery efforts. By embracing digital solutions like drones and social media, they can improve their effectiveness and stay abreast of the latest trends.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I envision myself leading a nonprofit organization focused on emergency management and chronic illness advocacy. As someone living with multiple sclerosis, I’m committed to advancing healthcare access, promoting inclusive emergency planning, and shaping policies that protect individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or other vulnerable populations.
Could you share a fun fact about yourself?
I’m a proud mom of two boys who have officially outgrown me. I love Peloton and am a passionate advocate for people navigating chronic illness. I use my voice to support and uplift others.
Learn more about the MS in Emergency Management program.