Leanna Carroll

Knowledge Analyst, World Education Services


Why did you choose the M.A. in Global Thought and how did it prepare you for your current position?

I was initially drawn to the M.A. in Global Thought for its flexible coursework and rigorous duration. When I was applying for master’s programs, I felt limited by the rigid structure of other programs I came across. After learning more about the M.A. in Global Thought I was pleased to know that I would be able to combine courses from Teachers College and the School of International and Public Affairs, all while gaining great foundational knowledge in globalization. It offered the best opportunity to both acquire specialized knowledge while pursuing my own interests.

Having been able to combine international affairs and education has definitely helped me immensely in my current role. As an analyst at World Education Services, my master’s degree has given me an upper hand in understanding the trends within the international education sector that my team deals with on a daily basis. This level of understanding has helped me contribute to and collaborate on higher-level projects outside of my daily work, which serves as a great form of professional development.

Describe a favorite MA in Global Thought course or project and how it helped your academic, professional, and/or personal growth.

My favorite project was the final assignment my class completed for the core course entitled Futures of Economics and Society, taught by David Park and Linda Tvrdy. We were tasked, in groups, with creating our own business ideas and creating pitches that included mission statements, financial plans, organizational models, logistical frameworks and theories of change, and proprietary values. My group and I created a hypothetical experiential school in India that taught computer skills to adult women with the ultimate goal of reducing poverty in rural areas. Although very abstract, the project helped me develop entrepreneurial and self-starter skills. It was an extraordinary feeling being able to turn an abstract idea into a full-blown proposal.

How did you come to work in your current career field and what inspires you about your work?

I had always interned and worked for either non-governmental organizations or educational institutions, and I knew I did not want to necessarily leave those sectors—being able to combine them was a bonus! I think pursuing the master’s degree really catalyzed my interest in international education. The most inspiring part of my work is that it promotes learning for all involved. The field of international education is always changing, so as someone employed in that sector there is always something to learn and explore for my own personal benefit. More importantly, working for an organization like World Education Services, I’m doing a small part to help ensure that the educational qualifications of immigrants and refugees are recognized in the United States and Canada—which can often help the aforementioned demographics pursue educational and professional opportunities.

What advice would you offer current Global Thought students as they enter the job market?

One of the most important things—and something that I think most people are constantly working on—is being confident in your accomplishments and owning your knowledge. In my opinion, there is a great deal of power in being able to assess your own value and know what you bring to the (professional) table. The job search can definitely be exhausting, but it is important to not lose sight of the amazing accomplishment you just achieved.

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Leanna Carroll, Class of 2018