Joanna obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education Studies with a specialization in policy and politics from New York University in 2021. While at NYU, she also obtained a Master’s degree in Education and Social Policy in 2022. Her experience has been centered around advancing educational equity as an analyst for the New York City Mayor’s Office, education advocate for students with disabilities, congressional intern for the U.S. House of Representatives, and research assistant at NYU Steinhardt. Currently, Joanna is a Quality Assurance Coordinator at New York City Department of Education as well as a Project Associate at Columbia Law School’s Center for Public Research and Leadership.
Exposure to qualitative and quantitative research skills, relevant policy analysis, and hands-on work experience prepared me for the field I am now in.
How did the Education Studies program help you prepare for your career?
The Education Studies program had courses that directly aligned with my future career goals. Exposure to qualitative and quantitative research skills, relevant policy analysis, and hands-on work experience prepared me for the field I am now in. Additionally, between the BA and MA programs there are countless professors that are supporting your success and development.
What was your favorite part of the Education Studies program?
I am grateful for the opportunities this program offers to build your skills and gain hands-on experience. During my time in the Education Studies program I had the opportunity to be a Congressional Intern for a member of the US House of Representatives serving on the Education Committee. Additionally, I was introduced to Columbia Law School’s Center for Public Research and Leadership which partners with entities across the education sector to solve their most pressing equity-focused challenges.
What other job opportunities, programs, or projects helped prepare you for your career?
As a staff writer for The Journal of Student Affairs at Steinhardt and NYU’s Undergraduate Student Law Review I was able to research and write about topics that meant a lot to me.
What is your favorite part of your current job position?
Learning the inner workings of the NYC Department of Education. This position has given me a greater understanding of how policy is developed and implemented.
Do you have any advice for current or prospective students?
NYU has a lot of unique courses so take advantage of what’s out there. During my program I had the chance to take courses such as From Huckfinn to Columbine: Violence in Schools, Special Education History and Legislation, and Advanced Seminar: Autism Spectrum Disorders.