<p><span class="p-body">Sandra Khalil's path to her <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/homepage/academics/masters-degrees/ms-in-global-security--conflict--and-cybercrime.html">MS in Global Security, Conflict, and Cybercrime</a> at NYU's School of Professional Studies (SPS) reflects her deep-rooted curiosity and commitment to making an impact in a rapidly evolving field. As a first-generation Egyptian-American, Sandra was born in Brooklyn and raised in Long Island. Her interests in reading, writing, traveling, and learning—especially in the study of languages—shaped her academic and professional pursuits.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">We caught up with Sandra to learn more about her career, her advice for prospective students, and where she has her sights set on for the future.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">When the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the world, Sandra seized the opportunity to combine her global affairs background with her burgeoning interest in cyber issues. Her research led her to NYU SPS, where she was drawn to the <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/homepage/academics/divisions-and-departments/center-for-global-affairs.html">Center for Global Affairs</a>. The prospect of studying under world-class faculty, who were deeply connected to the industry, was irresistible. Sandra knew that NYU would equip her with the most current knowledge in this dynamic and critical area.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Sandra thrived in her role as a student, fully embracing her return to the classroom. A natural leader, she took her studies seriously and became a driving force among her peers. Her leadership was evident in her successful advocacy for a cyber club for the student body and in her ability to manage group projects with the same precision and dedication as a seasoned professional. </span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Sandra's experiences in various fields before graduate school enriched classroom discussions, particularly on topics like government, multilateral institutions, and law enforcement's role in cyber issues. The relationships she built with her professors extended beyond graduation, continuing to influence her professional career.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Today, Sandra serves as an associate director for All Tech Is Human, an organization dedicated to promoting responsible technology. In this role, she manages stakeholder engagement, ensuring that partnerships align with the organization's global approach to responsible tech applications. Her work often takes her on the road, where she speaks on panels, podcasts, and at events covering critical issues like responsible AI, trust and safety, and public interest technology. Sandra credits her time at NYU SPS with providing the foundational knowledge and authority needed to speak confidently about these issues, especially from a humanities and social science perspective.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Sandra's career has been shaped by the mentorship and support she has received along the way.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">She is particularly proud of her professional development in the trust and safety space, proving that individuals without a technical background play a crucial role in addressing cyber risks.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Looking ahead, Sandra is eager to continue her work in the trust and safety field and broader responsible tech initiatives. She advises incoming NYU SPS students to make the most of their time by building strong relationships, getting involved on campus, seeking mentorship, and taking on challenging coursework. Sandra's story is a reminder to embrace opportunities, nurture professional relationships, and commit to lifelong learning.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Join the next generation of global leaders when you pursue an <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/homepage/academics/masters-degrees/ms-in-global-security--conflict--and-cybercrime.html">MS in Global Security, Conflict, and Cybercrime</a> at NYU SPS.</span></p>