After an unplanned start in the field at EF Education First in Boston, Rebecca decided to pursue a master's degree at NYU and completed the program in spring 2016. During her time at NYU, she was fortunate enough to intern both at Catholic Charities, Refugee and Resettlement and the Institute of International Education. Post-grad, she has been working at Baruch College, Continuing and Professional Studies as the Recruitment Coordinator for Global Programs.
Current Job: Recruitment Coordinator for Global Programs, Baruch College, Continuing and Professional Studies.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Helping non-native English speakers achieve their academic goals in the U.S. At the beginning, most students in our pre-academic language programs at Baruch College start off very shy, but by the time they are accepted into bachelor's or master's programs, their self-confidence has grown immensely. It's awesome to be a part of this transformation.
How did the International Education program help you prepare for your career?
The IE program exposed me to the many shapes and forms that international education can take. The program helped me define my own career direction, particularly through internship opportunities, which allowed me to "test out" different areas of the field. I learned about what I was most interested in and what I was not as interested in, which I believe are equally as important.
Do you have any advice for current students?
Utilize the alumni network-even if it's not specifically for job-related purposes. Our field is so unique/varied that it's sometimes helpful just to speak with someone who "gets it" and can offer a new piece of advice or perspective. And there's the bonus that IE alums and people in the field tend to be some of the nicest people you'll meet!