Natalie Cassedy '17

The Management Program itself is a challenging and rewarding program. In addition to learning about essential subjects (like accounting and human resources), I developed soft skills that are applicable in the workplace. This shows the real value of the program – you gain essential knowledge about management theory and learn vital skills that managers must have today, such as teamwork and public speaking.

Outside of the program, I got involved in other activities and student clubs around campus, such as Net Impact, a student organization with branches across the world. The goal of the organization is to train the next generation of students to be leaders, and to be sensitive to a wide variety of social and environmental issues. Net Impact illustrated how business can have a real impact on the world. Within the organization, I helped to plan and organize events on campus that would benefit the student body and help me improve my organizational and leadership skills.

I also had a chance to experience a study trip through Cultural Programs. This was a totally unique, one-of-a-kind opportunity. I never would have thought that I would go and study for ten days in Cambodia! It was a life-changing experience for many reasons and something that I believe helped me grow even more as a person and into my career.

Whether it was in the classroom, sharpening my intellect and skills against other incredible students, or outside the classroom, engaging in another sort of education – my journey at AUP helped to kick-start my career. Not only did it give me a chance to elevate my professional profile through intensive coursework with wonderful professors, but I was also able to practice and perfect my French while gaining international experience. Today, I’m an Associate Research Analyst working in San Francisco where I continue to work with NGOs and international development.