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Meet Katie, Charity CEO
- maryhartley19
- Nov 10
- 3 min read
Name: Katie
Degree: BA in Russian Language, BS in International Security and Conflict Resolution from San Diego State University. MA in Youth Development from University of Nebraska-Lincoln
How did you spend your Year Abroad?
I studied at the Moscow Humanitarian University for 7 months. In addition to language classes, we went on a variety of cultural activities and trips to learn more about the country, its people and culture. I lived with a host family when I was there. They didn't speak English, which I think exponentially helped my language skills, as I was forced to just use my Russian.
Additionally, I worked in summer camps in orphanages in Russia for 6 years. It was a rewarding experience and allowed me to learn about a different demographic of children within the country. I also took the Trans-Siberian Railway to Lake Baikal, an isolated location for 2 weeks, where I was able to practice everything I had learned.
Briefly outline your journey from graduation to now.
Following graduation, I moved from San Diego to Stuttgart, Germany and worked at an after school club for military children for 5 years. During that time, I got my MA in Youth Development.
Then, I moved back to California and was the director of a YMCA after school program for 4 years.
Following that, I moved to London, where I joined the creative arts charity, Never Such Innocence, as the director of operations. In 2022 I accepted the role of CEO. Recently, it was a real honour to visit my university as a guest lecturer and speak about my experiences with the intersection of my various degree paths.
What is your current job? CEO of Never Such Innocence, a Charity in the Creative Arts/Education sector
What does your current job involve day to day?
Everything! I am responsible for the overall running of the charity, ensuring we meet all regulatory requirements, managing partnerships, applying for grants, budgeting, human resources, team-building, partnership development, event planning and management, attending and supporting workshops, web design, social media, marketing, posting letters - and everything in between. As a small charity, we work together as a team to meet the aims of the charity.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love that our charity is making a difference for young people. It is really special seeing them use creative arts to share their thoughts and feelings on war and conflict, especially when they don't have as many opportunities to be heard on this topic.
What advice would you give to someone interested in this job?
Whether the charity sector or any other - I would encourage you to pursue a career which you are passionate about. Doing something you love will help make every day enjoyable and engaging for you.
How has your languages degree been useful during your career so far?
During my career, it has helped me when I have worked in an international setting, like I currently do. I am able to read and understand entries we receive into our competition and have been able to use my language skills to translate various documents. Having lived in many places, I have a much broader understanding of the world around me.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your career journey?
I would highly recommend keeping your language skills sharp, even if you aren't using them regularly. In hindsight, I wish I would have been more diligent so they didn't get rusty! I would also suggest building your networks - as you never know how connections over the years might come into play in any job you have.
Thanks very much to Katie for sharing her journey!
Did you study a language at university, like Katie?
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