Q&A with Javan Whittaker, 2025 Master's Graduate

Javan Whittaker (MA '25, Education Leadership, Politics, and Advocacy) discusses serving his community in the Graduate Student Organization and taking advantage of opportunities as an NYU student.

Tell us about yourself! What did you study at NYU Steinhardt? What kind of extracurriculars were you involved in?

Hello, I’m Javan, proudly hailing from the vibrant twin-island republic of Trinidad and Tobago. I pursued a master’s in Education Leadership, Politics, and Advocacy. Beyond academics, I had the privilege of serving as the Event Coordinator for the Graduate Student Organization (GSO). My time with GSO was incredibly fulfilling, as it gave me the opportunity to dive deeper into my passion for event planning and hosting. It was both a rewarding and enriching experience that allowed me to connect with others while honing my skills.

What is your favorite memory from your Steinhardt experience?

My favorite memory from NYU Steinhardt has to be the GSO’s happy hours. These events provided a wonderful chance to unwind and connect with fellow students in a relaxed setting. As an international student, it was particularly special to meet people from diverse backgrounds, all sharing a similar journey at such a unique and global university like NYU. The atmosphere fostered meaningful conversations and friendships, making it a highlight of my time at Steinhardt. It truly reinforced the sense of community and belonging that NYU offers.

Any plans after graduation? Where do you see yourself in three years?

After graduation, the first thing I plan to do is take a month off to fully embrace the simple joys of everyday life—something I didn’t have the chance to do after moving here for school. Having been a teacher for the past 13 years, I’m ready for a change of pace. My goal is to transition from the classroom into a leadership role, where I can apply my experience and passion for education in new, impactful ways.

What advice do you have for students in your field or program?

One piece of advice I wish I had received when I first started is the importance of networking—”network, network, network!” Attending NYU, and especially being part of this program, opens up a wealth of opportunities that you should seize whenever you can. Don’t hesitate to connect with people, attend events, and engage in conversations that can enrich your experience. 

Another valuable piece of advice I received in my final year at Steinhardt is to take full advantage of everything NYU offers, particularly when it’s FREE! There are so many resources, workshops, and events available that can significantly enhance your academic and professional growth, so make sure to explore and utilize them to the fullest.