Aileen Cox, a graduate of Georgia Tech’s M.S. in Applied Languages and Intercultural Studies (M.S. ALIS) program, works with the Atlanta Police Foundation as part of its development team. The organization, a public safety nonprofit, focuses on initiatives to make the city safer, including programs that provide at-risk youth with access to educational resources and supportive community spaces that help reduce exposure to gangs and other harmful influences.
In her role, Cox contributes to the organization’s development efforts by managing donor information, sending donor acknowledgements, and conducting research on potential supporters. She has also helped prepare grant reports and assisted in drafting foundation grant proposals.
A Strong Liberal Arts Foundation
Cox credits her liberal arts degree with helping her build the professional and research skills that prepared her for the workplace. Through the M.S. ALIS program, she developed stronger professional communication skills and learned how to conduct rigorous research — abilities she continues to use in her current work environment.
Projects and Accomplishments
During her time at Georgia Tech, Cox completed several projects she is particularly proud to claim as her own. Her master’s project examined students’ linguistic and emotional outcomes after participating in the School of Modern Languages’ Language, Environment, and Arts in France summer study abroad program. For the project, she designed assessments that included written tests, surveys, and oral prompts to measure fellow students’ language development before and after completing the program. Cox said conducting this research while also participating in the study abroad experience made the project challenging and rewarding. Her research culminated in a comprehensive 40-page paper written in French.
Cox said another highlight of her academic work was her final presentation for Theory and Foundations, titled “Political Language as Mass Deception,” in which she explored how language shapes public perception in news media, as well as how the mass production of media can discourage critical thinking. Drawing on the work of thinkers such as Michel Foucault, Theodor Adorno, and Max Horkheimer, Cox examined how language and media narratives influence public understanding of social and political issues.
Transitioning from Graduate School to a Career
Reflecting on the transition from graduate school to the professional world, Cox emphasizes the importance of evaluating workplace culture and prioritizing personal well-being.
“It’s important to really analyze the culture of your workplace,” she said. “Being part of an environment that aligns with your values can make a big difference in how motivated and fulfilled you feel.”
For students preparing to graduate, Cox also offers reassurance that career paths often take time to develop.
“It’s okay to not have everything figured out when you graduate,” she says. “Everyone’s journey is different, and sometimes you just need to keep exploring until something truly resonates with you.”
As she continues to explore new professional opportunities, Cox remains optimistic about the future.
“I’m starting a new chapter, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.”
By Melissa Garcia-Rodriguez, M.S. in Global Media and Cultures student
