Justin Fogliasso

Justin came to IE University straight after earning his undergraduate degree in Ecology and Conservation Biology at Boston University. As an advocate of environmental sustainability and a lover of the great outdoors, the Master in International Development felt like a natural step for Justin in his journey toward a career dedicated to food and water security.

Justin had completed a few internships in the fields of corporate social responsibility and sustainable investments. It was exactly this mix of experiences that sparked his interest in applying his scientific background to the broader and more interdisciplinary field of sustainability. He was looking to build a more transversal skill set that would help him launch his career, and IE University fit the bill. The Master in International Development was exactly what he was looking for.

What surprised him the most about the program was the diversity of backgrounds and experiences that his classmates brought to IE University. He loves being in the same room as amazing people with a wealth of stories to tell and a passion for different areas of sustainability. In terms of the coursework itself, classes such as Development Economics, Negotiation and Political Acumen, and Econometrics and Data Analytics particularly caught Justin’s attention.

“My experience at IE University, although challenging at times, has exposed me to new ways of thinking and topics that I have never explored before.”

Justin acknowledges that his experience at IE University, although challenging at times, has exposed him to new ways of thinking and topics that he had never explored before. The rigorous academics have inspired him to get better at setting personal goals, as well as manage his time better to achieve those goals. To any prospective students looking for advice, Justin recommends connecting with current and past students via LinkedIn to ask questions about what you hope to get out of the program—something that helped him a great deal before he took the leap and applied. Beyond that, he says the highlight of his time in the program so far has been the opportunity to meet, work with, and learn from amazing individuals who come from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences.

In five to ten years, Justin sees himself enjoying nature and pursuing his passions—which include cooking, hiking, kayaking and any other outdoor activities—and, of course, working in the field of food and water security. What matters most to Justin is being able to work with a company on something that he is passionate about, an organization whose values align with his own. He looks forward to exploring his options and mentions that IE University, with its many connections, is aiding him in his search.

Before long, Justin will be ready to launch a career dedicated to protecting the planet’s natural environment and food and water resources. We wish you the best of luck, Justin. The world needs more change-makers like you!