What will be your next step after graduation?
Administrative Assistant, Federal Reserve Bank of New York
Where will you be living?
New York, NY
In what ways has HES impacted your career and long-term professional goals?
HES has profoundly influenced my career trajectory and long-term professional aspirations. The rigorous academic environment and the diverse community of professionals at HES provided me with invaluable insights and skills that have significantly enhanced my capabilities. The courses, particularly those in government and national security, have deepened my understanding of complex policy issues and strategic decision-making processes. These are crucial in my Federal Reserve Bank of New York role.
Moreover, the program’s flexibility allowed me to balance my full-time job while pursuing my studies, enabling me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life practical scenarios. This immediate application of learned concepts has been instrumental in my professional growth and has helped me excel in my role within the Markets Group.
Long-term, my experience at HES has solidified my ambition to contribute to public service and policy-making at higher levels. The program’s emphasis on critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication has prepared me to tackle complex challenges and make impactful decisions. I am now more confident in my ability to influence and drive positive change within the public sector, ultimately contributing to the betterment of our society.
What advice do you have for HES students now that you have graduated?
- Embrace Flexibility and Balance: Harvard Extension School’s flexibility was a game-changer for me. Balancing my full-time job at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York with my studies was challenging but incredibly rewarding. Apply what you learn in your professional life—it makes the experience richer and more relevant.
- Network and Engage: The diverse community at HES is one of its biggest assets. Engage with your professors and classmates; these connections can lead to mentorship, support, and opportunities. I’ve found these relationships invaluable in my career and personal growth.
- Stay Organized and Manage Your Time: Juggling work, school, and personal life requires strong organizational skills. Develop a system that works for you. Prioritize tasks and set achievable goals to stay on track. This approach helped me manage my responsibilities effectively.
- Seek Out Resources and Support: HES offers numerous resources to enhance your academic and professional journey. Utilize career counseling, academic advising, and access to Harvard’s extensive libraries. These resources were crucial for me, especially when navigating complex subjects in government and national security.
- Stay Curious and Open-Minded: Don’t be afraid to explore courses outside your main focus. I took advantage of this and gained new perspectives that enriched my overall experience. Interdisciplinary learning can open up new avenues and ideas you might not have considered.
- Reflect on Your Goals: Regularly take time to reflect on your career and personal goals. Adjust your path as needed. For me, this reflection was key in aligning my studies with my long-term aspirations in public service and policy-making.
- Enjoy the Journey: The journey through HES is unique and enriching. Appreciate the progress you’re making and celebrate your achievements along the way. Completing my master’s while working full-time was tough, but looking back, it’s one of my most rewarding experiences.”
