Major(s): Economics, Sociology
What is your current role? What was your journey in arriving there?
I am currently a graduate student pursuing an MBA/MPA dual degree (business, public policy) at The Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania) and Harvard Kennedy School. After spending years working in the investment banking and nonprofit sectors, I realized that graduate school would enable me to explore how I may best leverage my background in finance/impact work to continue reshaping the built environment in ways that promote inclusivity and equity. Now, I am looking to pursue a career in real estate development.
What do you enjoy about your work? What do you struggle with?
I have enjoyed furthering my intellectual growth while meeting diverse peers that continue to challenge my understanding of the world. I’ve struggled with the soul-searching portion of my graduate school journey and refining my own personal “theory of change.” In starting this new chapter of my professional career, there have many intimidating trade-offs to consider as well as several moments of self-doubt.
Do you have any advice for students thinking about entering your industry?
Try to develop relationships with people that inspire you, regardless of industry or professional background. The Wesleyan alumni network has supported me in many meaningful ways that I could have never expected, sometimes from people that never I would have guessed that I’d professionally overlap with.
How did your time at Wesleyan influence your career choice/journey?
My biggest takeaway from Wesleyan (both personally and academically) is that nothing ever neatly fits in a box, nor should they. Wesleyan enabled me to see the world through an interdisciplinary, intersectional lens, ultimately shaping me into a more creative, curious, and empathetic person. I am excited to pursue a career path that will allow me to leverage these skills in (hopefully) making a broader positive impact within the communities that I am a part of.
Updated as of September 29th, 2023
