Jo Jose, currently vice president of Internal Affairs for the Columbia School of Professional Studies Student Government (SPSSG), believes “to lead is to serve.” In keeping with this mission, she will continue contributing to the community as the new president of SPSSG, starting in the upcoming school year.
A global citizen and “third culture kid” who has lived in seven countries, she is extremely passionate about building warm, welcoming communities wherever she goes, especially at Columbia. In her current role, she fosters community across the 18 SPS programs and helps her peers navigate student life. “As someone who has moved around a lot, I can deeply empathize with many international students arriving in the U.S. for the first time,” she says.
This passion for building inclusive environments extends beyond student government. As an M.S. in Technology Management student, she strives to always put people first and recognizes that making connections is crucial, especially in the fast-paced, evolving landscape of tech start-ups.
“I’m proud of the many events and initiatives I’ve helped facilitate in SPSSG, but at the heart of it all is that power of connection,” she adds, reflecting on her greatest accomplishments. She strongly believes that while every student at SPS is unique, the shared Columbia experience unites them all. “Being a part of SPSSG has given me a sense of purpose and drive that I will carry into my future career and my life.”
Leadership is deeply personal for her. “Losing my mother propelled me to make this pivot and pursue my second master’s degree at Columbia University,” she says. “Everything that I’ve accomplished in this new chapter, I do for her.” She hopes her journey will inspire others and help them realize that in the most difficult of situations, they can find comfort in their Columbia community.
About the Program
Columbia University’s Master of Science in Technology Management is a hands-on technology leadership development program designed to train professionals for equal fluency in tech fundamentals, business operations, and ethical leadership.
The fall 2025 application deadline for the Technology Management program is June 1. Learn more about the program here.
