NYU & TC Host a Dynamic Alumni Panel on Careers in International Education
On Wednesday, November 12, New York University (NYU) and Teachers College, Columbia University (TC) welcomed students and alumni for an energizing evening of conversation, career insight, and community building. The International Education Professional Futures Alumni Panel and Networking Event brought together graduates from both institutions to reflect on their diverse professional journeys and to support emerging practitioners navigating the field.
Held at the NYU Silver Center, the panel featured five distinguished alumni whose work spans EdTech, humanitarian response, higher education, K–12 teaching, and international exchange. Lauren Lichtman, Co-Executive Director at Learning Equality and a TC ICEP 2012 alum, opened discussions with reflections on building equitable learning tools for underserved communities. Jon Kwok, Regional Research & Learning Coordinator for PlayMatters at the International Rescue Committee, shared insights from his humanitarian work and his experience as a TC ICEP 2022 graduate. Representing higher education, Sarah Willyard, Director of Operations at NYU’s Office of Global Services and a 2010 alum, spoke about supporting international students and navigating institutional systems.
The conversation also highlighted career transitions, with Sneha Bolisetty, an NYU IE MA 2020 graduate and current TC PhD candidate, discussing her shift from research at Global TIES for Children to teaching high school history. Nina Hassenstein, Program Lead and Operations Manager at the Institute of International Education (IIE), offered a perspective grounded in years of experience in global exchange programs since earning her NYU IE MA in 2009.
Over ninety minutes, panelists reflected on how they entered their respective sectors, the unexpected turns that shaped their paths, and the skills that have proven essential along the way. They shared candid stories about mentorship, professional uncertainty, the realities of humanitarian and educational work, and the importance of aligning career choices with personal values. Students engaged the panelists with thoughtful questions about networking, job searching, and sustaining purpose in a field that is both demanding and deeply rewarding.
As the panel concluded, the group moved to The Malt House on Thompson Street for an informal networking session. The shift in atmosphere brought renewed energy as students and alumni continued conversations over appetizers, exchanged contact information, and explored shared interests. What began as a structured discussion evolved into a lively gathering that fostered genuine connections across alumni networks from both campuses.
The evening ultimately illustrated the breadth of possibilities within international education and the strength of the community surrounding it. By bringing together practitioners working across global learning, humanitarian action, research, and student services, NYU and TC highlighted the collaborative spirit that defines the field.
The event left attendees with new insights, renewed motivation, and a sense of belonging within a wider professional community, one that will continue to grow through future joint events and shared initiatives!