Jennifer Spangler

Looking back, what are the most valuable skills, tools, or aha-moments you gained at Trachtenberg that you still rely on today?

One of my defining moments at Trachtenberg was in Professor Cellini’s microeconomics class. After I did well on the final exam, she wrote a note on the back encouraging me to challenge any internalized (perhaps societally-taught) doubt that I may have about pursuing a career that relied on my hard skills rather than just my soft ones. I’d always been good at math and enjoyed it in school, but I naturally gravitated toward writing and communication.

Her encouragement really stuck with me. I ultimately built a career in budgeting, which has turned out to be much more of an art than a science. It has given me the opportunity to combine my analytical and communication skills every day in a way that’s both creative and rewarding.
 

What advice would you share with someone looking to pursue a career similar to yours?

Stay curious and develop strong critical thinking skills. The best solutions rarely come from simply following a process; they come from asking thoughtful questions, considering different perspectives, and approaching problems creatively. Some of the most rewarding opportunities in my career have come from being willing to learn from people with different expertise and take on challenges that initially felt outside of my comfort zone.

Also, if you’re considering a career in government, remember that behind every budget, policy, or spreadsheet are real people. Keeping that perspective makes the work not only more meaningful, but also leads to better decisions and better outcomes.