Academia Coaching, Events, and Resources

I came to Higher Education through a non-traditional corporate route! I started my career in feature animation production (film) in Los Angeles. I was ultimately offered roles at the University of Southern California (USC) both at the Cinema School and the Marshall School of Business, both without a Masters degree. In higher education, particularly in elite universities, you understand that this is a rare occurrence. I ended up working with Undergraduate, MS and MBA students at the Marshall School of Business for almost 7 years, before my family and I relocated to NC to be closer to family and buy our first house (after 22 years of renting in LA!). I have been working with MS and other graduate business students at NC State for almost 3 years. I've navigated several significant career pivots in my life and have a unique ability to draw out a person's story and help them wrap words around what matters to them in a compelling and authentic way. I've worked with private clients from entry level executive assistants at talent agencies and television writers, to commercial real estate executives and K-12 teachers. I am happy to talk with you about career paths (on the admin/staff side) within student services, academic advising, student life, program management, admissions, career advising, etc. If you're not sure that you want to go into higher ed (or stay there) I am happy to facilitate conversations around other creative applications of your skill set in the private sector.

With extensive experience working at top institutions like Dartmouth, USC, and NYU Stern, I understand the unique environment of academia—its bureaucracy, its reactive nature, and how the current political landscape is influencing the landscape. And, I’ve seen firsthand the opportunities and obstacles in higher ed, so I’m committed to helping professionals find environments where they can grow, contribute, and flourish. My approach to coaching is rooted in this understanding--that is, helping you to assess whether a particular environment will support your growth and fulfillment. Together, we explore how to navigate the complexities of higher ed, align your career goals with your values, and find pathways where you can truly thrive.

Welcome to my profile! With a rich background in leadership and education, I bring a unique perspective to higher-education coaching. As a Teaching Fellow at Harvard University, I've coached over 100 individuals in adaptive leadership, equipping them with the skills to excel in dynamic environments. My experience with the United Nations World Food Programme and as an independent leadership coach has honed my ability to guide clients through complex decision-making and time management challenges. I hold multiple advanced degrees, including a Master of Arts from Harvard Kennedy School, where I was awarded the prestigious John F. Kennedy Fellowship. Let's work together to elevate your educational journey and achieve your academic and professional goals. Reach out to start your path to success!