Sloan Koester

Why FSU?

I chose Florida State for many reasons but the top was the affordability! Planning ahead financially for your education is very important, and by attending Florida State, I was able to participate in abroad experiences, internships, and more because of the affordability compared to other universities! I also chose Florida State for the vast alumni network. Knowing I wanted to work for a global company one day, making these connections, whether it is now or in ten years, was very important to me.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

Pursuing a graduate degree was not something I had always planned on doing. When I graduated with my bachelor's degree, I felt as if I needed more; I wasn't satisfied, and I had a craving to learn more about International Affairs. Wanting to work my way up in international business, I decided pursuing a graduate degree also seemed like a smart idea to do now, when I did have the time and less commitments. Graduate degrees are wonderful tools: you gain stamina and better academic skills, but most of all you truly push yourself and your abilities, which is something that allows you to grow in your career. In my eyes, it made great practice and taught me many lifelong skills.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

The work I completed throughout my program gave me an in-depth look into country relations, international economics, and the ways in which the world works throughout increasing globalization. To me, everything I learned played a vital role in my career. I'm deeply interested in supply chain, international marketing, global finance, and more, all of which require, in my opinion, an in-depth understanding of global relations past and present.

Career aspirations

I currently work for The Hershey Company in Pennsylvania! I have a role in territory sales, and want to work my way up into international marketing. I would love to pursue jobs with Hershey abroad, as a we have a large global presence!

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

My advice is not to wait. If you feel graduate school is something you need or want to do, do it. In my eyes, school never gets easier, and pushing yourself when you're young allows you to unlock your potential at a younger age, thus helping your professional career grow.

Accomplishments during graduate career

During my time at Florida State, I worked in Paris, France, as a marketing intern with a hotel group, studied at a Spanish immersion school in Guatemala, published my first book, made lifelong connections, and passed my comprehensive exam with distinction!