In celebration of OUTober, alum Julia Saltzman (she/they), shares their journey from navigating their identity during their academic years at Binghamton University to embracing it fully in the workplace. Their advice highlights the importance of understanding personal values and authenticity when searching for jobs and advocating for inclusivity. With a career focused on atrocity prevention and human rights, they underscore how identity can shape both professional pathways and approaches to work. Read on to check out their insights below!
Name: Julia Saltzman
Pronouns: she/they
Current Job Title: Programs Associate
Employer/Current Organization: Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect
Graduation Year: 2022
Major(s) at Binghamton University: Master of Public Administration; Bachelors in Philosophy, Politics and Law
Minor or Concentration: Certification in Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention; Minor in Human Rights
Can you please tell me about yourself? |
I am a young professional working in international relations, with a focus on human rights and atrocity prevention. I am deeply motivated by a desire to connect with others and contribute positively to my community and the world. Outside of my work, I stay active in my community by playing in a Women, Trans, and Non-Binary (WTNB) dodgeball league and volunteering with a local jazz organization and a Girl Scout troop. |
Can you describe your undergraduate experience as a student (major, extracurricular activities) and the ways, if any, your experiences fostered a sense of belonging as a member of the LGBTQ+ community? |
As an undergraduate, I was still navigating my identity and understanding how it shaped my future path. While I was aware of my queer identity, it wasn’t until my master’s program that I actively sought out an LGBTQ+ community. I applied for a position at the Q Center somewhat on a whim, but my experience there laid the groundwork for a sense of community that I never realized I needed. |
How has your identity within the LGBTQ+ community impacted your professional experience? In what ways has that shaped your workplace searches and overall perspective both currently and in the past? |
My identity within the LGBTQ+ community has significantly influenced my professional journey, guiding both the roles I seek and how I present myself authentically in the workplace. Having worked at the Q Center before entering the professional world, I knew that being able to openly express my identity was crucial to me. I’m grateful to have found a role that not only allows me to be open but also encourages me to integrate this aspect of my identity into my work. Part of my responsibilities at the Global Centre includes creating opportunities for dialogue on intersectionality, encompassing gender identity and sexual orientation. I believe these conversations are essential to raising the profile of LGBTQ+ issues within the human rights and atrocity prevention field, ensuring that all prevention efforts consider a queer perspective. As I continue to grow in my career, maintaining visibility and advocating for inclusivity remains a steadfast priority for me, especially in spaces where representation is limited. |
What is one piece of advice you would give to students who are part of the LGBTQ+ community with respect to applying to jobs and staying true to their identity? |
My advice is to understand your priorities when it comes to your identity in the workplace. For some, it’s important to find opportunities that highlight and integrate their LGBTQ+ identity into their professional lives. For others, they might prefer to keep that part of themselves private. Both approaches are valid, and it’s up to each individual to decide how they present themselves, including in professional settings. Knowing what you value and what you want from a potential employer will help you make informed decisions that align with your authentic self. |
How did your coursework and/or extracurriculars at Binghamton prepare you for your current role? |
At Binghamton, I studied Philosophy, Politics, and Law, with a minor in Human Rights, and went on to earn my Master’s in Public Administration with a certificate in Genocide and Mass Atrocity Prevention. Now, in my role within international relations, specifically in the human rights and atrocity prevention sector, I utilize my academic background daily. These studies provided me with a critical understanding of the international system and the skills to develop pragmatic solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. My education in philosophy and public administration has equipped me with the ability to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application, which has been invaluable to my work. |
What would you say is the most important skill in your field and how do you use it in your current position? How can Binghamton University students develop this skill while in college? |
Effective communication, delivered with kindness and humility, is the most crucial skill in my field. International relations often involve engaging with diverse stakeholders, from those with in-depth knowledge to those with little background on the issues. Being able to communicate in a clear, accessible, and respectful manner is essential for effective diplomacy. One of the best ways to develop this skill is to take advantage of university lectures and engage with practitioners, whenever possible. Ask questions, say the wrong thing now to hopefully avoid doing it later. I also highly recommend making use of resources like the Speaking Center to practice public speaking and nuanced dialogue. |
What is your advice for obtaining positions within your field? How can recent graduates stand out during the interview process? |
My advice is to be genuine about your motivations for entering the field of international relations. Humility is a powerful quality that is often overlooked by young applicants. It’s important to recognize that while you may have a solid educational foundation, there is always more to learn. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous growth and a willingness to learn will set you apart during interviews. In such a competitive field, obtaining a master’s degree can be particularly advantageous, providing you with a deeper level of specialized knowledge. However, make sure that your pursuit of further education is aligned with your authentic goals and motivations. |
Julia is eager to connect with current Binghamton University students to provide them with more individualized guidance. If you would like to keep the conversation going with Julia, please email them at julialsaltzman@gmail.com, or connect with them on Mentor Match or LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julialsaltzman/)!