From: Economic and Political Development Concentration
Date: April 10, 2023
Subject: EPD Newsletter #27



Hello EPD-ers,

We hope you had a lovely weekend! EPD is excited to announce the dates of the Workshop 2022-23 Final Presentations. The workshops will run from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM on Thursday, April 27 and Friday, April 28, followed by a reception. First-years can sign up as timekeepers for the final presentations: you can use this link to volunteer for a time. 

Wishing you all a great week ahead!


This week’s newsletter includes:

  • Upcoming EPD Events
  • Other Events
  • Career Advancement Center Events
  • Jobs, Internships and Other Opportunities
  • NYC Beyond SIPA
  • EPD Office Hours  

UPCOMING EPD EVENTS

TODAY! EPD Workshop Briefing Session for First-year Students
When: Monday, April 10, 2023 
 
Time: 
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location:  IAM Room 409 & Zoom

Join Jenny McGill and second-year EPD students who will discuss the EPD workshop program and share how you can help design a project for next year.
We also encourage you to complete a very short EPD workshop survey so we can gauge your interests in particular regions, topics, and organizations.  

Register HERE



Small Loans, Big Dreams: Book Talk with Alex Counts 
When: Thursday, April 13, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: IAB Room 801 & Zoom

Microfinancing is considered one of the most effective strategies in the fight against global poverty. And now, in Small Loans, Big Changes, author Alex Counts reveals how Nobel Prize Winner Muhammad Yunus revolutionized global antipoverty efforts through the development of this approach. This book presents compelling stories of women benefiting from Yunus’ microcredit in rural Bangladesh and urban Chicago, and recounts the experiences of different borrowers in each country, interspersing them with stories of Yunus, his colleagues, and their counterparts in Chicago.

Alex Counts founded Grameen Foundation and became its President and CEO in 1997. A Cornell University graduate, Counts' commitment to poverty eradication deepened as a Fulbright scholar in Bangladesh, where he trained under Professor Muhammad Yunus, the founder and managing director of Grameen Bank, and co-recipient of the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize.

Register HERE. 


Book Talk: The Blue Commons: Rescuing the Economy of the Sea
When: Friday, April 14, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: IAB Room 801 & Zoom

Guy Standing is an economist and Professorial Research Associate at SOAS University of London. Professor Standing is a founder and honorary co-president of the Basic Income Earth Network (BIEN), an international NGO promoting basic income as a right. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts and a Fellow of the UK Academy of Social Sciences. He has designed and conducted basic income pilots in India and elsewhere, and is currently advising the governments of Wales and Catalonia on ongoing basic income pilots.

His most recent book is The Blue Commons: Rescuing the Economy of the Sea (2022), which the Financial Times made one of its Books of the Year, peels back the veil of the boundless exploitation and inherent criminality in the ocean economy. Written by an economist responsible for much of our contemporary understanding of inequality and possible solutions, this book not only reveals the scale of the challenge but points to a transformative alternative: building a blue commons, dismantling rentier capitalism and prioritizing the world’s commoners and the health of our oceans.

Register HERE.

Asian Development Bank's Outlook for Developing Asia

When: Tuesday, April 18, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: IAB 407 and Zoom


Please join ADB's Chief Economist Albert Park for a discussion about the latest Asian Development Outlook publication. Mr. Park is the chief spokesperson for ADB on economic issues. He leads the Economic Research and Regional Cooperation Department (ERCD), which publishes key knowledge products such as the Asian Development Outlook, Asian Economic Integration Report, Asia Bond Monitor, and Key Indicators for Asia and the Pacific.

Mr. Park's discussion will include: 

  • The outlook for economic growth and inflation in developing Asia in 2023-24, including the effects of the PRC’s exit from its zero-COVID policy
  • Risks to the outlook, from the continuing Russian invasion of Ukraine to monetary tightening
  • The need for greener trade and investment to tackle climate change and ensure sustainable growth in Asia and the Pacific (AEIR)

RSVP here.


OTHER EVENTS

Documentary Screening: "Just. Another.Month" (Period Poverty
When: Monday, April 10, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM 
Location: IAB 801

Join us for an inspiring and educational event that raises awareness about period poverty, a global issue that impacts millions of persons who menstruate. Our event will feature a keynote address, followed by a screening of the documentary "Just. Another. Month" and a Q&A session with the filmmaker(s). The documentary  follows two Namibian activists who fight against period poverty and promote gender equality. 

Our goal is to create a safe and inclusive space for all to engage, learn and take action on this important topic. Don't miss this opportunity to be a part of a community that cares about women's health and rights. Please RSVP to attend this event. Lunch-to-go will be provided.

Navigating U.N. Internships, Fellowships & Consultancies
When:
Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM 
Location: IAB 1512 

Panel and Q&A session on planning for and finding the right summer internships with second years with experiences in the UN such as internships, fellowships, and the transition to consultancy positions.

RSVP here.


Gender&&
When:
Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM 
Location: IAB 801

Come learn about your fellow students' independent research! Pizza and drinks will be provided.

RSVP here.






Navigating U.N. Internships, Fellowships & Consultancies
When: Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM 
Location: IAB 1512 

Panel and Q&A session on planning for and finding the right summer internships with second years with experiences in the UN such as internships, fellowships, and the transition to consultancy positions.

RSVP here.


MENA Forum Ramadan Iftar
When:
Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM 
Location: Publique Cafe, IAB 6th Floor

Salam alaikoum! SIPA students are invited to break their Ramadan fasts in Publique on the evening of April 12th. All are welcome!.

Please make sure to register when registration opens so we have enough food for everyone!



Activism Under Oppression: Forced Labor and Human Rights Abuses of the Uyghurs
When:
Thursday, April 13, 2023
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM 
Location: Publique Cafe, IAB 6th Floor

The Human Rights Working Group is hosting a conversation with author and activist Jewher Ilham and Professor Andrew J. Nathan. Jewher Ilham is the daughter of Uyghur scholar Ilham Tohti, an internationally noted moderate voice who was dedicated to bridging the gap between the Uyghur people and the Han Chinese. As an advocate for her father, she testified before the U.S. Congressional-Executive Committee on China, wrote op-eds in the New York Times, met with a number of government officials including former Secretary of State John Kerry, and received numerous awards worldwide on behalf of her father. Jewher Ilham will speak about the challenges the Uyghur people continue to face.

RSVP here.

Toward a Sustainable World: The Power of Public-Private Collaboration
When:
Friday, April 14, 2023
Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM 
Location: Faculty House, 4th Floor, Skyline Level

The PPC Club, SBWG, and SUMA clubs (SUMASA and ENVENT) are excited to host an engaging and inspiring panel discussion on how the public and private sector can work together to tackle climate challenges, particularly in cities. The panel will explore how policy and business can shape the future outlook of sustainable growth.

Panelists:

  • Meghan Mills, Strategy & Operations Leader, Government & Public Sector at EY
  • Charalampos Avraam, Smart Cities Postdoctoral Associate, NYU Center for Urban Science + Progress (CUSP)
  • Lisa Diaz, Managing Partner and Founder of Turf Advisory

Stay for food and drinks after the panel discussion! This is a great opportunity to network with professionals and with students from other schools at Columbia University. 

Register in SPS's portal here (use guest account).


Book Talk: 'Locked Out of Development: Insider and Outsiders in Arab Capitalism'
When:
Tuesday, April 18, 2023
Time: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM 
Location: IAB 410

The Middle East and North Africa Forum is holding a book talk on Arab Capitalism with Dr. Steffen Hertog (Associate Professor in Comparative Politics at the London School of Economics) and Dr. Lisa Anderson (Special Lecturer and James T. Shotwell Professor Emerita of International Relations at the Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs). Both will be discussing Dr. Hertog's new book called "Locked Out of Development: Insiders and Outsiders in Arab Capitalism." Professor Anderson will moderate a conversation on the topic, where students can take part in this discussion.

RSVP here.

Event FlyerSIPA Speaks! North Korea, Human Rights, and the Pursuit of International Peace and Security

When: Thu, Apr 20, 2023
Time: 1PM – 2PM EDT
Location: IAB 1512

Seohyun Lee (MIA ’24) shares her personal opinions as a North Korean defector from an elite family, offering a unique perspective on the hermit kingdom. Drawing from her background and experiences, Seohyun explores the complex dynamics of privilege, oppression, and the challenges faced by those living under the Kim Jong Un regime. As an advocate for change, Seohyun shares her views on human rights in North Korea and highlights the importance of addressing these issues. Through her YouTube channel "Pyonghattan" and public speaking engagements, she passionately argues for the prioritization of human rights in the pursuit of international peace and security.

Register HERE


CAREER ADVANCEMENT CENTER EVENTS

Networking Strategies
When:
Monday, April 10, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: IAB room 413
Work Authorization Requirement: N/A

Networking: How does it work, and how do you succeed at it?  In this session, an experienced social impact leader and SIPA alumna breaks down the dos and don’ts of effective networking and outlines the strategies and techniques that work.  You’ll learn what are appropriate expectations, and how to cultivate strong relationships with alumni and established professionals.    

For more information CLICK HERE.

 

Careers in Social Impact: What to Know and How to Get Started
When: Tuesday, April 11, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: IAB room 413
Work Authorization Requirement: N/A

What are key differences between social impact, ESG and sustainability?  How do they relate to each other?  What do social impact careers look like?  And what skill sets do employers prioritize when hiring?  This workshop will address these questions and others and clarify important considerations for pursuing a career in social impact.

For more information CLICK HERE.

 

Grow Your Brand on Social Media - Linkedin Workshop
When: Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: IAB room 410
Work Authorization Requirement: N/A

Sree Sreenivasan 

Social media strategist, former Chief Digital Officer for NYC & Columbia Journalism School professor will show you how to:

  • Position Yourself for the Job You Seek
  • Get People to Respond to Your Linkedin email requests
  • Answer other Linkedin questions you have

For more information CLICK HERE.

 

Mastering the Job Search as an International Student
When: Wednesday, April 12, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: IAB room 413
Work Authorization Requirement: N/A

Two highly successful SIPA alumni, both former international students, detail the strategies and best practices that powered their journey from home country to policy school to key professional positions.  They will share insights, strategies, and best practices for international students to pursue roles in the public and private sectors and leverage their background to significant advantage.

For more information CLICK HERE.

 

Workshop on Internship Funding Search
When:
Thursday, April 13, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Where: IAB room 413
Work Authorization Requirement: N/A

The great majority of summer internships are unpaid, but there’s help.  In addition to grants and fellowships offered by other Columbia departments and external organizations for summer internships, SIPA also provides a limited number of summer internship funding opportunities.  Attend this information session for an overview of funding opportunities, how to research them, and what to expect during the application process.

For more information CLICK HERE.

 


JOBS, INTERNSHIPS AND OTHER OPPORTUNITIES 

The Federal Government is Hiring 2023 Interns!  

Learn new skills and make an impact! Check out the new Federal Internship Portal (intern.usajobs.gov) and apply for an internship today.  

The Federal government works in every industry and every sector. We are the largest and most diverse employer in the United States, with four million public servants working every day to strengthen our communities. Internships are a great opportunity to work alongside these experts, learn valuable skills, drive change, and make a positive impact. 

New opportunities are frequently available on the Federal Internship Portal, so please check the site every week. 

From supporting scientists combating climate change and engineers rebuilding America, to data analysts helping small businesses and health care workers fighting diseases — the Federal government does big things every day. If there’s an issue you care about or an industry you want to work in, chances are the Federal government works on that issue.  

If you are passionate about serving your community and country, consider interning with the Federal government. 

To find open positions, visit intern.usajobs.gov. 

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Program Officer: Monitoring Evaluation and Learning (MEL) Practice

Banyan Global, an international development consulting firm, is actively recruiting a full-time Program Officer to support its growing MEL practice. Banyan Global operates seamlessly within four practice areas: health; gender, youth, economic growth, and MEL. They are looking for a self-starting mid-career professional with 5-7 years of experience in international development and experience in performance monitoring, evaluation, assessments, learning, and adaptive management, who is interested in helping them manage and grow their MEL practice. This position is based in Washington, DC with travel abroad and requires authorization to work in the US.


EPD has an alumn refernece at Banyan Global, so please reach out to your EPD-PAs if you would like to get in contact with them.

For more information and to apply for the position, please visit: https://social.icims.com/viewjob/po168052694155515d23 
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For the latest OCS New Job and Internship Opportunities CLICK HERE and Upcoming Deadlines for Jobs and Internship Application CLICK HERE. (Double check to make sure you are signed into your SIPA emails for the links to open!)

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Important Graduation Regalia Ordering Details

Full academic regalia is required to participate in both University Commencement and the SIPA Class Day Graduation Ceremony. All academic attire, including the cap and gown, is ordered through the Columbia University Bookstore. Orders may also be placed online by visiting columbia.shopoakhalli.com. The deadlines to order regalia are March 29, 2023 for PhD students and April 12, 2022 for Masters students.
For more information visit https://commencement.columbia.edu/content/graduates or contact the Columbia University Bookstore directly at 212-854-4132.

 


NYC BEYOND SIPA 

Visit Luna Park in Coney Island!

With a new year comes new attractions. Joining the lineup of iconic attractions like the Coney Island Cyclone and the Thunderbolt, Luna Park is welcoming guests back for a season of unforgettable thrills and memories with brand new attractions like the Tony’s Express roller coaster and Leti’s Treasure log flume.

Luna Park will open every weekend until Memorial Day Weekend for visitors to test their limits on high thrills, play classic boardwalk games, and enjoy entertainment only Coney Island can offer.
 


EPD OFFICE HOURS

Jenny McGill, EPD Co-Director and Workshop Director
Sign-up online via https://sipa.campusgroups.com/click?linkid=e00d40fe-b618-4edf-ac9d-ecfedec56429 or
By appointment at em419@columbia.edu

Ilona Vinklerova, EPD Manager
Sign up online via https://sipa.campusgroups.com/meetings/1060915/IlonaOH_Spring2023 

Suhail Thandi, EPD Program Assistant
By appointment at sst2151@columbia.edu

Zoya Dhakam, EPD Program Assistant
By appointment at zsd2110@columbia.edu

Your favorite PAs,
Zoya and Suhail