Natalie Cassedy G'17 on Engaging in Another Sort of Education

Now an innovation manager in San Francisco, alumna Natalie Cassedy G'17 graduated from the MSc in International Management with a focus on NGO and mission-based management. Here, she reflects on the profound ways AUP shaped her career path – both inside and beyond the classroom. 

MSIM_ALUMNI-PROFILE_NATALIE-CASSEDY

I applied to AUP because it provides a liberal arts education, and more specifically because of the Management Program. I wanted to study management but to do so for an industry where I could make a difference, such as the non-profit sector, which is why I chose the NGO and mission-based management track. As someone who loves the French language, I also wanted the opportunity to study to improve my French in France, all while studying in English.

During my studies at AUP, I met people from all over the world who compelled me to put my best self forward, especially in the Management Program. People are competitive in the classroom, but inclusive and welcoming outside of it. I think this makes you a better student and person. One of my favorite professors was Professor Robert Earhart. He was one of the best professors I have ever had! Not only are his lessons well thought-out, creative and educational, but he has a way of relating management theories to different industries and fields. He knew that students were interested in a diverse range of fields and was able to demonstrate how theories were applicable across a broad spectrum of industries. 

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.

MSc in International Management

NGO and Mission-Based Management Track

Study Trips

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. 

– Natalie Cassedy

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 insights and innovation manager working in San Francisco where I continue to work with NGOs and international development.