By Charlotte Hou, Alumna of the M.S. in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution (NECR) Program, School of Professional Studies, Columbia University in the City of New York
Before I joined Columbia’s Negotiation and Conflict Resolution (NECR) program, my journey began with a law degree in China, followed by extensive global travel across more than 70 countries. These experiences deepened my interest in human interactions, cross-cultural communication, and negotiation dynamics.
At Columbia, I was deeply influenced by the people I met of all genders who actively support and advocate for female growth and success in both personal and professional spheres. I was especially inspired by several female leaders who served as role models, demonstrating through their contributions and leadership how negotiation can be a powerful tool for economic empowerment and opportunity creation. Their insights shaped my vision, reinforcing my commitment to creating opportunities for women to develop negotiation skills, build confidence, and support one another in achieving professional success.
Today, I apply the negotiation theories and strategies I learned at Columbia in an innovative way: integrating AI into negotiation training. My work focuses on leveraging AI to enhance negotiation skills and empower women worldwide through cross-border collaboration, technology-driven training, and strategic empowerment initiatives.
I currently work on AI-driven negotiation training at iViz Lab Research, an interdisciplinary lab specializing in computational and AI modeling of human cognition, expression, and behavior. The lab integrates advanced AI technologies into applications such as AI coaching and virtual human interactions. With the support of iViz Lab, I explore how AI avatars can enhance negotiation skills, improve decision-making, and create more effective training environments for professionals looking to gain a competitive edge.
Beyond my work at iViz Lab, I am the founder and organizer of a cross-border initiative dedicated to empowering women in negotiation and professional leadership. Our vision is to build a connected community spanning Vancouver, New York City, China, and Dubai where women can collaborate, advocate for one another, and gain access to more opportunities and resources.
Through this initiative, we aim to:
- Equip women with negotiation and leadership skills to confidently navigate their careers and advocate for their value.
- Foster cross-industry collaboration, creating opportunities for women to connect, share expertise, and build strategic alliances.
- Expand female ambition, confidence, and financial empowerment, ensuring that more women secure leadership roles and access greater resources.
- Leverage AI and technology to make negotiation training more accessible and effective, enabling women to negotiate better deals, advance their careers, and drive impact in their industries
The NECR program at Columbia played a pivotal role in shaping my approach to negotiation and leadership. The program’s theoretical frameworks, hands-on case studies, and exposure to global perspectives gave me the confidence and knowledge to explore new ways to use technology as a tool for empowerment. More importantly, Columbia’s community of passionate leaders reinforced the belief that negotiation is not just about winning a deal—it’s about creating opportunities, fostering collaboration, and advocating for yourself and others.
My experience at Columbia reshaped my understanding of negotiation—not just as a skill but as a critical tool for empowerment, leadership, and transformation. I aim to ensure that more women have the tools, confidence, and networks to thrive in high-stakes negotiations and leadership roles.
For those considering the NECR program or wondering how negotiation skills can shape their future, I encourage you to stay open to unconventional paths, seek out mentors, and never underestimate the power of strategic communication. Columbia was the catalyst that set me on this path, and I am excited to continue driving meaningful change through negotiation and technology.
Views and opinions expressed here are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Columbia School of Professional Studies or Columbia University.
About the Program
Columbia University’s Master of Science in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution prepares students to analyze the root causes and dynamics of conflict and to transform disputes through reasoned and resourceful interventions. The program focuses on developing self-awareness, tenacity, and interpersonal competency; building common ground; opening lines of communication; ensuring representation and recognition; and building sustainable possibilities for resolution.
Learn more here.
