By Noelle Demole, Graduate of the M.S. in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution Program at Columbia SPS
My SPS experience was transformative, shaping not only my career but also how I navigate challenges across diverse fields. As a proud alumna of the Negotiation and Conflict Resolution program, one of the most impactful lessons I gained was understanding the importance of preparation and adaptability in negotiation. This resonates deeply in my current roles.
As a client due diligence expert at Julius Baer, I combat white-collar crime and terrorist financing. The negotiation and conflict resolution skills I gained at NECR are crucial when handling complex investigations. For instance, I once had to conduct due diligence on a difficult case involving compliance officers, external regulators, and internal stakeholders with differing perspectives on risk appetite. Such challenges often mirror the scenarios we practiced during my favorite SPS moments: negotiation exercises where multiple parties held conflicting priorities. Applying my NECR training, I facilitated a structured negotiation, aligning interests while ensuring regulatory compliance.
Similarly, running Shere Khan Youth Protection, an NGO supporting vulnerable individuals in South India, often requires conflict resolution skills, especially when navigating cultural sensitivities, local politics, and crisis situations. For example, when we faced resistance from certain students we were helping, I used mediation techniques from NECR to bridge the gap and foster collaboration, ultimately allowing us to expand our reach. Our NGO also faced a major funding shortfall. Drawing on techniques from SPS, I was able to mediate between stakeholders, restructure agreements, and secure the necessary support to continue our mission.
Menstrual equity is another area where NECR skills have been invaluable. As the founder and CEO of Egidays, I pitch menstrual equity initiatives to corporate partners. Negotiating buy-in and managing resistance is key, especially when dealing with sensitive topics. A notable instance was negotiating with a corporate client hesitant about placing dispensers due to concerns over product misuse. By applying interest-based negotiation strategies, I reframed the conversation around corporate social responsibility, workplace productivity, and gender equity, leading to a successful partnership.
To incoming students, my advice is to fully engage in the practical aspects of the program. Participate actively in every simulation and case study. They are more than exercises; they are blueprints for handling real-world complexities. Also, build connections with your peers. The diversity within SPS is one of its greatest strengths, offering unique perspectives that enrich your learning and broaden your worldview.
Looking back, my SPS journey gave me the confidence and skills to turn ideas into meaningful action. Whether advocating for menstrual equity, protecting vulnerable individuals, or ensuring ethical compliance, the lessons from Columbia remain a cornerstone of my work.
Columbia SPS taught me that negotiation is about building trust, fostering empathy, and finding solutions even in complex situations. This perspective has shaped how I approach challenges across my career—whether advocating for menstrual equity with Egidays, leading Shere Khan Youth Protection to support vulnerable communities, or ensuring ethical compliance at Julius Baer.
I hope others learn that the skills gained at SPS extend beyond work; they shape who we are as leaders and collaborators. My SPS experience transformed me, showing that every challenge is an opportunity to create meaningful impact with strategy, empathy, and resilience at the core.
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.
The fall 2025 application deadline for the M.S. in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution program is May 1. Learn more here.
