Charting a Unique Path to a Purposeful Career

There are a lot of ways to learn about and explore graduate programs, but few find themselves beginning that journey because of a convenient (and admittedly cozy) library. 

However, that’s exactly where Josh’s story begins. As a Tufts undergraduate, he found himself drawn to the Ginn Library’s inviting atmosphere to work through his math and sociology coursework. Today he settles into the same seats to complete assignments for the unique BA/MALD program, a 4+1 collaboration between Tufts University and Fletcher. 

“The Ginn Library was just far superior to other campus libraries,” he recalled. “That early experience—and its resources—sparked my interest in Fletcher.” 

This connection, paired with his interdisciplinary studies in sociology and math, inspired him to chart a path that would let him bring his analytical skills and social interests together.

Applying STEM Skills and a Love of Theory

“Choosing sociology and math wasn’t typical,” Josh shared. But this unconventional blend allowed Josh to take his love for the logic and reason of math into making a difference. 

“I’ve always been a math and numbers person,” he explained, “but I wanted to put it to good use, to find a career path that was both meaningful to me and impactful for others.”

Josh’s academic pursuits and deep-seated interest in debate gave him the analytical skills and theoretical frameworks invaluable to fields like law and policy. 

“When you look at it, law and math aren’t so different. Law involves understanding definitions and how they’re applied, just like you would with a math formula,” he reflected.

His sociology coursework also helped him see how theoretical concepts, like those in Marxist traditions, are foundational across disciplines like international relations. 

“The connections between sociology and international relations were striking—they share a lot of the same theoretical fundamentals. Recognizing these ties gave me a strong base to build on at Fletcher.”

Finding a Perfect Fit at Fletcher

The BA/MALD program’s interdisciplinary approach gave practical shape to Josh’s ambitions. 

“Fletcher’s approach allows me to leverage both my analytical abilities and my interest in understanding social systems,” he said. “It’s exactly what I was looking for—a place to use what I know to make a difference.”

Inspiration in the Arctic

Josh’s studies have already taken him beyond the classroom and into the field. This fall, he joined about 20 other Fletcher students on a trip to the Arctic Circle Assembly, led by Fletcher Professor Rocky Weitz. Attending the assembly, which focuses on Arctic policy issues and environmental governance, was a powerful experience for Josh. 

“As a Canadian, the Arctic Circle Assembly gave me an entirely new perspective on policy issues that are close to home,” he said. “It’s made me excited about potentially working in Ottawa someday, advocating for better governance of water resources and indigenous territories.”

Now back at Fletcher, Josh is applying these insights in his GIS class, exploring the complexity of deep seabed mining. 

“I’m researching the inequities around resource distribution and national rights to ocean territories. It’s challenging but incredibly motivating work,” he shared. 

Increasingly interested in these concepts and how they could inform his next job, Josh is applying for an internship with the United Nations Department of Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea. He sees this as another step toward building a career that bridges his academic skills with real-world impact.

Finding a Home Away from Home

Though Josh plans to return to Canada post-graduation, he’s found a sense of belonging at Fletcher that has helped him thrive. 

“The first three weeks at Fletcher were the hardest,” he admitted. “I was trying to read everything word-for-word like I would with math problems, and I had to learn to pace myself.” 

As he adjusted, Josh found a supportive community, which helped him balance social life with academics. 

"It’s amazing how, as you get more comfortable with people, the academics become easier too. The friendships I’ve made here are just as important as what I’m learning in the classroom.”

From Passion to Purpose

Reflecting, Josh sees his Fletcher experience as a turning point—a place where he could fully bring together his passions for STEM, law and social systems. 

“This journey has shown me that I don’t have to choose between my love for numbers and my desire to make a difference,” he said. “At Fletcher, I can do both, and I’m proud of the path I’m creating.”

Josh’s story highlights the flexibility and support Fletcher offers to students who are ready to chart their own course. By weaving his STEM skills with his commitment to global impact, Josh is turning his academic pursuits into a purposeful journey toward building a meaningful career.

Learn more about the BA/MALD program