Every year, each master’s program at Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies chooses an outstanding student to represent the program as a student marshal at graduation. These students are nominated by their program’s administrations for demonstrating both academic and personal achievement. The marshals lead their peers on graduation day by crossing the stage first and holding their academic program’s flags.
“Being a student marshal is such an achievement,” says Melissa Mayard, associate director of student life. “I truly enjoy hearing the stories of these students and how much they have impacted the Columbia and SPS community.”
Here’s what this year’s student marshals shared about their academic experiences, their advice to incoming students, and the most valuable lessons they learned at SPS.
As vice president of the Actuarial Society of Columbia University, I was able to meet and host discussion panels with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and other leaders in the field. The experience was sheer excitement and opened doors for me to learn about new trends and thinking among industry experts.”
Parallel to my academic endeavors, I took on the role of vice president of the Applied Analytics Club. A highlight of this role was organizing filmed interviews with industry professionals, which not only provided invaluable insights into our field but also honed my skills in networking and effective communication.”
One thing I valued about my time at SPS is that, even though I was 100% online, I was still able to interact with classmates and participate in engaged, respectful discussion. Discourse, especially about challenging topics, is a skill that the Bioethics program reinforces at a time when it is needed most.”
My advice to incoming students is to fully embrace every moment at Columbia and in New York City. Treat each challenge as a precious opportunity for personal growth, for these experiences will become invaluable gifts on your life’s journey. Columbia offers a unique environment where learning extends beyond the classroom walls; it is a place where you can gain wisdom from every activity you engage in and every interaction you have.”
The HCM program definitely empowered me by giving me access to decision-making tools, case studies, best practices, and most importantly, the confidence to step into the complex and dynamic corporate world. A special shoutout to Dr. Steve Safier for his continuous mentorship and confidence in me.”
My experience at SPS was truly transformative. The blend of academic rigor and practical application provided a unique learning environment for me through IKNS's dynamic curriculum. One standout experience was my independent study under Professor Kate Pugh's guidance, where I delved into research that not only honed my academic research and writing skills but also satisfied my intellectual curiosity.”
My SPS experience has been a very fulfilling one that expands further than academics. I have made the most of the Columbia experience as an online student by being involved with student government as Program Rep and E-Board Secretary of SPS Student Government.”
In the Narrative Medicine Program, I have had the opportunity to explore a broad range of intersections in the humanities and clinical sciences, including literature, philosophy, and art. The interdisciplinary nature of the pedagogy will forever inspire me to ground future academic and work environments in ethics and humility.”
The Negotiation and Conflict Resolution program has helped me dissect conflicts that previously seemed completely insurmountable, and it has assisted me in understanding them as complex phenomena. At the same time, it has helped me to simplify them to grasp the full picture of the conflict, including the actors, dynamics, and structures at play.”
I arranged regular small group lunches on campus with students that I met in the library, on the subway, through Columbia events, or that I read about in university publications. This way I had the broadest possible experience on campus and helped others network with people they would not ordinarily meet. I would encourage other students to talk to at least one person who is different from you every day.”
The best parts of SPS, and my program specifically, were the openness and accessibility of the professors, as well as the flexibility to dive deep into my personal interests within the field. Not only was I able to customize my course load—including multiple classes outside of my department and an independent study with Professor Wawro, the director of my program—but I also received significant personal and professional guidance along the way.”
My advice to incoming students is to get to know your peers. You are fortunate to be surrounded by incredible people in the SPS environment. I learned just as much from my peers as I did through the curriculum. Get involved in extracurricular activities, ask questions, and enjoy the ride!”
I was fortunate enough to be accepted into the HBCU Fellowship Program. My favorite experiences outside of the classroom revolved around the interactions I had with other members and the administration of the HBCU Fellowship Program. I’ve faced a lot since moving to New York. I’m proud and blessed I’ve made it this far, and I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next.”
The Strategic Communication program at SPS has been a life-changing experience. Academically, it has prepared me to take on leadership positions in an ever-evolving world in which the creation and transfer of ideas and opinions will continue to play a pivotal role in society. Personally, this program has introduced me to brilliant classmates who’ve become lifelong friends.”
I've always been a strong advocate for mentoring, and it is one of the things that I find purpose in. My time as an SPS academic tutor, SPS student government representative, teaching assistant, and a student panelist has allowed me to give back to the program, and I will continue to do so in any way I can.”
My favorite part of my time at SPS has been my participation in student government. I feel I know so many more people and so much more about the university–and I get to go to all of our events!”
Being part of a global cohort at SPS has greatly enriched my understanding of various cultural perspectives and improved my ability to work effectively with people worldwide, especially in cross-cultural dynamics."
My advice to incoming students is to put in the work. Be a team player. Go to office hours. As one of my lecturers Craig Lyman said, "You will get out of this program what you put in."
