What does it look like to build a career in one of the world’s most influential cities? Beginning this spring, graduate students at the School of Public and International Affairs will step inside leading organizations across New York City to find out firsthand.
SPIA’s New York City Career Trip will take place March 9-10 during the University’s Spring Recess. The two-day experience will immerse students in employer site visits, candid career conversations, and alumni networking events in a city rich with opportunity across public service, international affairs, economic development, and consulting. Designed to help students turn professional aspirations into tangible next steps, the NYC Career Trip joins SPIA’s longstanding Washington, D.C. Career Trip as a valuable opportunity for students preparing for life after graduation.
Emmy Griffith, Director of Career & Professional Development
“After more than 15 years of successful career trips to Washington, D.C., we’re excited to expand to a new city,” said Emmy Griffith, Director of Career & Professional Development. “We have amazing alumni doing incredibly impactful work in New York City and we also have students with an interest in the unique career opportunities that exist there.”
The idea for the trip grew out of a fall 2024 alumni reception where graduates expressed enthusiasm for deepening their connection to the school and welcoming current students into New York’s professional community. Griffith said the expansion felt like a natural next step—one that alumni and students are eager to take together.
Students will participate in four employer site visits over two days, engaging directly with organizational leaders about career paths and hiring practices. Confirmed visits include Deloitte, the World Economic Forum, the United Nations Development Programme, and the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development.
“What makes these career trips so valuable is the access,” Griffith said. “Students hear directly from professionals about how they built their careers, how their degrees translate across sectors and roles, and what organizations look for in candidates.”
The trip will conclude Tuesday evening with a networking reception hosted by alumni Sundaa Bridgett-Jones (MPIA ’95) and Randy Jones (MPIA ’94), giving students the opportunity to begin building relationships in a city that can otherwise feel daunting to navigate alone.
For Griffith, the value of the experience extends beyond two days in New York.
“When students can picture themselves somewhere — whether that’s in an organization, in a specific role, or in a city — it changes how they approach their careers,” she said. “I’m looking forward to seeing students make real connections and potentially shape their future careers.”
The trip is open to students across all SPIA graduate degree programs. Participants are responsible for their own transportation, lodging, and most meals, but may receive a stipend of up to $350 to help offset costs based on eligibility and trip participation.
Learn more about our Career and Professional Development team and the resources available to students at every step of their journey at SPIA. For additional information about the NYC and DC Career Trips contact Emmy Griffith at egrif@pitt.edu.