When You Need a Listening Ear, the EPD Team is Here

Hello EPD-ers,

We know that last week’s election was a significant and potentially challenging moment for many. The results may not have turned out the way everyone hoped, and it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions in the aftermath. During this time, it's more important than ever to remember that, despite our differences, we can still be there for one another. Whatever the future holds, let’s lean on our shared sense of community and support each other through these uncertain times. Remember, your EPD team is here for you — so take the time to decompress, check in on each other, focus on what brings you hope and strength, and stay in touch.

On that note, we encourage first-year students to attend our internship panel today to hear directly from your EPD peers about their internship experiences and tips for navigating the summer internship application process. Register here!

With spring 2025 course registration opening on Nov. 18, we'll be sending a message soon about EPD core and elective courses offered in the spring semester.

Also remember to reach out to Semon and Talia directly to set up time for a coffee chat. We are always available to help. In addition, please feel free to use the "student spotlight" to submit any recent awards and other accomplishments for congratulations. We love to celebrate our EPD peers whenever possible! 

This week’s newsletter includes:

• EPD Student Spotlight - Sara Tassadaq
• EPD and Other Events
• Career Advancement Center Events/Reminders - November 11 through November 15
• Mental Health and Wellness Resources on Campus
• Things to Do in NYC
• Podcast Recommendation of the Week
• EPD Office Hours

EPD Student Spotlight: Sara Tassadaq

Sara is a civil servant for the Government of Pakistan where she has been working in the Ministry of Commerce before joining SIPA. Her work has largely centered on trade diplomacy and trade policy. During that time, she has played a pivotal role in successful negotiations of various bilateral trade instruments and has coordinated numerous state and high-level visits. Through her work, she found her passion in the area of development through trade, focusing on the economic policy determinants of equitable development and how trade policies at national and multilateral levels can help achieve the globally agreed development goals, a passion that guides her journey here at SIPA. Sara also has a graduate degree in Medical Genetics and is now pursuing a second Masters degree in International Affairs with a concentration in Economic and Political Development. She is also a Fulbright scholar. Outside of the classroom, Sara is an avid traveler - she traversed 21 states of the US last year, and has been traveling through Europe during the summer. She strongly believes that travel is one of the best modes of learning. Her other interests include going to art galleries (obsessed with The Starry Night!), learning new languages, cooking desi comfort food, and taking pictures for her Instagram.

EPD and Other Events
 

Career Advancement Center Events/Reminders - Nov 11 through 15

CAC Career Fact Sheets and Current List of Subscriptions
Please note that the CAC has numerous Career Development, Career Overview, and Sector Specific fact sheets filled with valuable resources to support your career preparation journey. Additionally, they have a Current List of Subscriptions to assist you with internship and job searches.  We encourage you to check out these links!

SIPA Alumni Career Coaching Program (SIPACC) 
Sign up for a coaching session with SIPA alumni who can provide sector or industry-specific expertise. Currently, there are two EPD alumni coaches, Hama Makino and Sadaf Sajwani, available to meet with you. Visit SIPA Connect at the link here to find instructions on how to book a session.
 

Mental Health and Wellness Resources on Campus

Please reach out to Columbia Health (Morningside, Manhattanville, and Teachers College; in-person, telehealth, and virtual options) for your health and wellness needs. University Life provides additional well-being resources and tips

Leading and Learning Series

Hosted by the DEICE Committee and Associate Dean Rodriguez, Professors Seth Freeman and Shawna Wakefield will lead a series of workshops about how to navigate conflict and cultivate your leadership in a time of rapid change. All sessions are in person, from 1-2pm and include a light lunch. Click the links to register.

• November 14: Working with Habits and Tendencies (Professor Shawna Wakefield)

• November 21: Reimagining and Building Resilience (Professor Shawna Wakefield) 
   

Things to Do in NYC

Bryant Park Winter Village

Open since October 25, Bryant Park's Winter Village features a European-inspired open-air market with artisanal gifts, holiday shops, and a free-admission ice skating rink (skate rentals available). Click here for more info. 

New York Botanical Garden's Holiday Train Show

Beginning November 16, marvel at model trains navigating through miniature replicas of NYC landmarks, all crafted from natural materials. Learn more here. 

Podcast Recommendation of the Week

About the Podcast: The Resilient Mind is a podcast that curates insights from global thought leaders to help listeners develop mental toughness and navigate life's challenges. Hosted by Andrew and Steve, each episode delves into topics like overcoming adversity, building resilience, and thriving in difficult situations. With practical advice and real-world examples, the podcast provides listeners with tools to cultivate a strong, positive mindset.

Recommended Episode: The Power of Your Mind - Dr. Joe Dispenza. Dr. Joe Dispenza, a renowned author, speaker, and educator in neuroscience, epigenetics, and quantum physics, joins the hosts to discuss the profound connection between mind and body. In this episode, he shares insights from over three decades of research on how harnessing thoughts and emotions can lead to transformative positive changes in one's life. Listen here.