It’s Never Too Late: A Long Journey from Gap to Graduation

It's Never Too Late: A Long Journey from Gap to Graduation

May 8, 2024

The story of Joshua Voda (MA '23), Regional Public Affairs Director at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, North Atlantic Division, stands out as a testament to resilience, determination, and the unwavering belief that it's never too late to chase one's dreams. "I started Baruch's Master of Arts in Corporate Communications program quite a few years ago, actually," Joshua reminisces, his voice tinged with a blend of nostalgia and perseverance. "I needed to complete a thesis/capstone to finish the program and despite the gap in time, I was determined to return and earn my degree."

Joshua found guidance in the administrative team and advisors at Baruch. The transition from theoretical constructs to practical applications bridged the gap between academia and real-world challenges. "Moving from theoretical knowledge to practical hands-on experience was probably one of the best benefits as far as getting that initial basis in the program," he reflects.

Joshua's decision to return to graduate school was a calculated step toward personal and professional advancement. He recounts his decision: "Why Baruch? It was a perfect match, both in terms of program quality and financial feasibility."

Joshua's academic experience culminated with his capstone project, a journey fraught with obstacles and possibilities. "It was a matter of circumstance," he explains, recalling the twists and turns that led him to his chosen topic. "I had the opportunity to deploy for the wildfires in Maui, Hawaii. That inspired my interest in exploring crisis communication within the context of government entities."

Ironically, the chaos of deployments and time constraints only propelled him forward. "I was there for two months straight, working 12-hour days, seven days a week, with no days off," he recounts. "But, oddly enough, this impactful communications project in itself became the cornerstone of my capstone."

As he delved deeper into the realms of crisis communication and social media analysis, Joshua unearthed insights that would not only shape his academic endeavor but also inform his future career trajectory. "I saw opportunities for improvement within the organization I was studying," he explains. "This project will serve as a valuable case study for government public affairs practitioners, offering insights into effective crisis communication strategies."

Completing his capstone project was not just a culmination of academic rigor but a testament to Joshua's unwavering commitment to his goals. "I think everybody's got to do it when they're ready," he reflects, his voice resolute. "It took much longer than I originally anticipated, but I'm glad I finally got it done."

Joshua sees his academic journey as a springboard for growth and leadership development. "I have a lot of room for growth and learning in my current role," he acknowledges. "My five-year plan revolves around becoming a stronger leader, someone who can truly make a difference in the lives of those around me."

For more information: Joshua Voda's LinkedIn

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