Pardee School Young Alumni Feature: Zach Crawford

The Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies at Boston University is proud to feature the various members of our graduate student body and alumni community as they work to advance human progress and become the global leaders of the future. Through one of our six MA programs with eight functional specializations, two dual-degree programs, one regional degree, and four graduate certificates, these individuals have explored a broad-based curriculum that breaks down disciplinary boundaries and enables them to build a holistic understanding of global affairs. 

For this series of graduate and young alumni features, the Pardee School spoke with various members of our community regarding their professional experience, how the Pardee School helped them reach their career goals, and what advice they have for current students. If you or someone you know would be a good candidate for a Pardee School graduate feature, contact Graduate Student Services.

For this young alumni feature, the Pardee School spoke with Zach Crawford (MGP ’20)

Degree & Specialization: MA, Global Policy (MPG) with specialization in International Public Health Policy (PAR ’20)
Hometown: Buffalo, NY
Work Experience: Government Accompaniment Program Associate, Partners in Health

What is your current job and what led you to this position? What do you like about it?

I currently work as the Government Accompaniment Program Associate at Partners in Health, a global healthcare delivery organization. In this role, I work as part of a small team that provides policy analysis, strategic planning, and other technical support to PIH’s 11 care delivery sites (including the US). I really enjoy my work at PIH and feel grateful to be part of a team that is making a real impact, from helping develop national health policies to assisting in their implementation. Prior to PIH, I spent a number of years conducting research and working for various human rights and global health organizations, which provided me with a solid foundation for a career in global health policy.

How has Pardee helped in shaping or attaining your professional goals? And/or, what advice would you give current students at Pardee to succeed?

Pardee has played an important role in my professional trajectory. The coursework, research opportunities, and faculty all provided me with the tools and support I needed to launch into the workforce. My advice to current Pardee students is to make sure to acquire hard skills prior to graduation. Some suggestions are quantitative analysis, program monitoring & evaluation, dashboard creation, financial management & budgeting, and data management. Many jobs require technical assessments as part of the application process that go beyond writing samples, so having these skills will help you stand out from other candidates.