Alyssa Yuen graduated in 2011 from the University of Mississippi with BAs in International Studies and Chinese. Before entering the Arts Administration program, she worked for AmeriCorps VISTA at the University of Mississippi Museum and Historic Houses, focusing on educational outreach in northwestern Mississippi and grant writing. She then continued her role there as the Membership, Events, and Communications Coordinator.

What attracted you to the Arts Administration Program at Teachers College, Columbia University?

When looking into graduate school programs, I wanted to find a program that has a well-rounded curriculum, strong sense of community, and diverse student community.  I was particularly attracted to the Arts Administration program at Teachers College, Columbia University because of it is one of the few graduate schools that concentrates on public management, non-profits, accounting, and art law, which better prepares me for diverse opportunities in the job market.  Since TC is affiliated with Columbia,  I have access to all the resources Columbia, the Business School, the Law School, Barnard, as well as SIPA have to offer.  Furthermore, living in New York City is full of opportunities for networking, internships, and jobs.  You have the chance to experience and have access to some of the most innovative policies, practices, and arts administrators.

How are your studies helping to advance your career goals?

The first year of the program offers a diverse course load, which has been opening my eyes to various job opportunities such as consulting and policy work.  All the teachers encourage the students to experience the arts through projects and interviews, which give us a better understanding of current practices, policies, and projects.  They frequently have guest speakers in class to let us hear first-hand how these arts administrators are changing the field.  One of the things I love about our teachers and classes is how they challenge us to be innovative, not to be complacent and follow the status quo.