The Professionals Podcast The George Washington University College of Professional Studies

In this episode of the Professionals Podcast, we delve into the comprehensive support system dedicated to military-connected students at George Washington University. From pre-admission inquiries about benefits to seamless transitions into campus life, Andrew Sonn, Ed.D. leads the Military and Veteran Student Services office at GW and is committed to ensuring a smooth journey for every individual. Learn about the array of programs available, including dedicated orientation sessions and the bustling Military Community Center at F Street.

Discover how Dr, Sonn's team extends support beyond Foggy Bottom, engaging students across various campuses and online platforms. With approximately 40% of military-connected students taking online classes, GW embrace's innovative approaches to foster a sense of belonging and community cohesion.

Explore the valuable resources and benefits accessible to our diverse student population, including the post-9/11 GI Bill and specialized career development initiatives. From translating military experience into marketable skills to hosting dynamic career events like its annual pitch competition, GW empowers students to excel in their chosen paths.

Join us as we navigate the challenges together, advocating for policies that prioritize student welfare and ensuring a seamless transition into academic and civilian life. Tune in to discover how GW's commitment to military-affiliated students enriches our campus community and beyond.

In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, Amanda and Luke are joined by Nick Reese, co-founder of Frontier Foundry, which is a leading DC area AI company. Drawing from Nick's experience as a former DHS Cyber Policy Analyst and a co-founder of Frontier Foundry, the Nick shares insights into shaping Executive Order 13960 on AI and underscores the importance of bridging the gap between policy and emerging technologies. From the challenges of governance to the opportunities of interdisciplinary expertise, the discussion navigates the dynamic landscape of national security in the digital age. Join the conversation as strategies are examined for equipping future professionals with the skills needed to navigate this complex intersection and ensure a secure future for the nation.

In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, we're joined by John Keegan, a faculty member that teaches Data Visualization at the College of Professional Studies. John shares his unconventional journey from a job in retail to a career in data analytics and data visualization.

This episode tackles the broad scope of IT and John highlights its various specialties, including cybersecurity, data science, and cloud computing. He advises students to explore their interests and emphasizes the importance of a strong IT foundation. John also addresses emerging trends like AI and its increasing presence in daily life and education.

When it comes to cybersecurity, John stresses the significance of personal security measures, such as using VPNs and verifying website security. He also cautions against blindly trusting AI-generated content, advocating for a balanced approach that combines human judgment with AI tools.

Throughout the discussion, John encourages curiosity, problem-solving skills, and proactive learning, essential qualities for success in the ever-evolving field of IT.

In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, we delve deep into the multifaceted world of publishing careers. Join us as we uncover invaluable insights from Mr. John Warren, Program Director and Associate Professor of the Publishing program at the College of Professional Studies.

Professor Warren shares his personal journey and reveals the diverse paths that successful publishing professionals have taken to reach their professoinal dreams. From editorial roles to marketing, from traditional publishing houses to emerging digital platforms, each Professor Warren brings a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges within the publishing landscape.

We explore the crucial intersection of passion and practicality, discussing how aspiring professionals can strategically plan their careers in this ever-evolving field. Through candid anecdotes and practical advice, Professor Warren offers guidance on finding your niche, building essential skills, and seizing opportunities for growth.

Whether you're a seasoned publishing professional or just starting your journey, this episode provides valuable insights to help you navigate the complex world of publishing careers. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the industry and discover actionable strategies to propel your career forward.

In this podcast episode, Kristian Maldonado shares his amazing journey into the world of urban planning. Driven by a deep passion for cities and communities, Kristian initially pursued civil engineering until a career test pointed him towards urban planning at the University of Nevada. This revelation led Kristian to delve into the dynamic field of urban planning, challenging traditional suburban living and advocating for sustainability.

As a land use planner in Loudoun County, Kristian navigates the intersection of politics, policy, and community engagement, striving to shape a more inclusive and sustainable future. Join Amanda, Luke, and Kristian on this podcast episode as they reflect on the evolution of urban planning and the pivotal role it plays in fostering vibrant, resilient communities amid the challenges of climate change and societal transformation.

In this episode, you'll hear Kristian reflect on his Capstone Project; experiences as a young professional in urban planning, and his advice for students that are keen to explore careers in the field.

In this episode of The Professionals Podcast, we delve into the world of sustainable urban planning with Ms. Sandra Whitehead, Program Director, Sustainable Urban Planning Program at GW's College of Professional Studies. The conversation reflects on the dual purpose of building spaces for people and safeguarding the environment and economy for future generations.

The discussion leads to a critical question: Which city serves as a model for sustainable urban planning? While Portland, Oregon, often takes the spotlight, Ms. Whitehead challenges this perception, pointing out concerns like urban sprawl. Drawing from personal experiences in Pensacola, Florida, the conversation explores historical layouts and sustainable practices that contribute to a walkable and environmentally conscious community.

The hosts, Amanda Gillespie and Luke Kasim, probe into Ms. Whitehead's motivation for entering this field, uncovering a personal connection to environmental justice challenges and a desire to understand and rectify the impact of industrial activities on local communities.

Shifting gears, the conversation delves into the role of urban planners in the face of climate change. Ms. Whitehead emphasizes the critical role planners play in shaping communities, managing public lands, and devising strategies for climate resilience. The curriculum's emphasis on climate change reflects its significance, with core classes dedicated to understanding the science and planning for low carbon and resilient cities.

The episode unveils the local impact of the program's graduates, with around 60% choosing to stay in the immediate area, working for federal agencies, non-profits, or planning consulting firms. The close-knit network, facilitated by alumni-student mixers and internships, plays a pivotal role in connecting graduates with job opportunities.

As the conversation unfolds, the conversation explores the program's unique feature – capstone projects. These projects provide students with opportunities to create professional planning products, offering practical solutions to real-world challenges. The podcast concludes with insights into global examples of effective urban planning, citing the Netherlands and Copenhagen, while emphasizing the program's commitment to creating change-makers equipped to address the urgent challenges of our time.