When did you join Grok?
2013
Describe yourself in three words.
Driven, entrepreneur, foodie
What were you doing before working at Grok?
Working in Financial Technology in New York
What was your first job in education?
Teaching an adult education class in computer programming.
What does international education mean for you?
In a time of global intolerance, international education is our best opportunity to unify young people across cultures and national boundaries, and create a context for students to appreciate diversity and learn to work together.
What is something interesting you have learned while working at Grok?
International education as a career is a microcosm of international education itself. Our field attracts smart, interesting people from all over the world and from all walks of life, usually sharing a love of travel, entrepreneurship, community, learning, and of course, good food. Once you join this industry you can’t leave!
What is one of the most satisfying outcomes you’ve helped a client to achieve?
Working with the Grok research team to help a K-12 boarding school in Australia survey students, families, teachers, and other stakeholders, understand the community’s interests and priorities in internationalization, and put together a multi-year plan for their engagement in China. It was a huge kick to interview bright young students, work closely with the school’s sharp, dedicated, and very kind staff, and ultimately see young Chinese students enroll and travel to Australia to a warm and attentive reception.
Why is it important for institutions to have a presence in China or SEAsia?
International education revolves around personal relationships, especially in China. It’s a huge decision for a family to send their child to another country for their studies, and such a decision is usually made with the support of personal advisors, meetings between high school counselors and university recruiters or faculty members, and questions and answers directly with university staff. Education institutions that are serious about international engagement can’t outsource those conversations; they need to be part of them. An on-the-ground presence can enable institutions to have staff members physically close to where the students are, who can travel cost-effectively around China, India, and other regions, and spend virtually 100% of their time having those conversations, speaking with a voice that bridges the gap between the institution and local families.
What is your favorite movie/book?
My favorite movie is Babette’s Feast.
What is your dream travel destination?
I love living in China, but if I have to choose a place I haven’t been to yet, I’ll say Switzerland. The architecture is spectacular with lakes and mountains, Swiss food is wonderful, their industries are interesting, and I’ve met some very nice Swiss people.
What is your favourite food to eat with friends?
I love Thai food, it is complex and interesting, healthy, goes well with wine, and dishes are perfect for sharing.
What is a something you’ve learned from somebody inspirational?
I love this quote from Calvin Coolidge, 30th president of the USA: “Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent.”
What was your favourite subject at high school or university?
Math and Computing