What Executive program did you complete, in what year, and what benefit did you gain from it?
I am an alum of the Executive Program in Social Impact Strategy (’18) and Digital Media in Social Impact (’23). I was a teaching fellow after completing the SIS program.
Tell us about your experience as an Alumni / Teaching Fellow.
Becoming an alum of the Center for Social Impact Strategy has been pivotal in my career. Through the programs at CSIS, I have been able to gain strategies to improve organizations, start an organization, and apply techniques in a variety of projects. I enjoyed the convenings the most as they were opportunities to meet people experiencing some of the same challenges. The teaching team has been amazing and available even after the program. The community is one of a kind and the network extends beyond the program. My peers have been an inspiration.
How have you grown and changed since graduating from the program?
Since graduating from these programs, I have been equipped with the tools and mindset to approach social change. During the program, I recall mapping out the journey of a client. This was an eye-opening experience and design thinking became my go-to problem-solving approach. There are countless tools that I continue to use to help guide my work today. The program unlocked an incredible network of global change makers that I can lean on for advice.
Can you share a favorite moment, lesson, or connection with a classmate that still resonates with you?
During the DMSI program, I was able to make deep connections with classmates. One of my favorite activities was asking open-ended questions and mapping out a day in the life of a classmate. It was a reminder that in our work there is always the need for active listening.
What advice do you have for future applicants?
Future applicants should stop overthinking and complete an application! The CSIS has been the best thing that has happened in my career. If you’re questioning if you will use these skills or if you belong, please reach out to the program staff or alumni of the programs. You won’t regret learning skills that will be applicable in every sector and meeting friends that will help you change the world. If you’re an emerging leader in social impact, this program is what you need!
Thank you, Prisma sharing your experience in the Center for Social Impact Strategy! Follow our page to hear from more brilliant Changemakers and sign up for our upcoming information sessions to learn more about the Executive Programs and check out our 2023-2024 Program Outlook to start your journey towards making a social impact.
Did you know executive education graduates can apply to the Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership (NPL) in an accelerated, on-campus, or online format? Learn more at the link provided above or reach out at infonpl@sp2.upenn.edu.
Applications are live for the Executive Program in Digital Media for Social Impact and the Executive Program in Social Impact Strategy Apply by October 22, 2023, to receive an early bird discount!