<p><span class="p-body">John Kane's passion for American politics and global engagement has been a driving force throughout his life. Growing up with a keen interest in how America interacts with the world, Kane pursued his academic interests at the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/center-for-global-affairs.html" title="Center for Global Affairs">Center for Global Affairs</a> (CGA) during its early years. &quot;I grew up with a deep interest in American politics and the way in which America engages with the rest of the world,&quot; he recalls.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">His positive experience at CGA inspired him to continue his education, leading to a PhD in Political Science from Stony Brook University. &quot;This program taught me a ton about how to do quantitative research—surveys, data analysis, online experiments,&quot; he says. With these skills in hand, Kane returned to the Center for Global Affairs in 2017 as a full-time faculty member, where he teaches Analytic Skills and courses on data analysis within the MS in Global Affairs program.</span></p>

<p>Kane's enthusiasm for teaching is evident in his approach and dedication. &quot;I really enjoy thinking through ideas and concepts, and spreading enthusiasm for things that might not seem exciting at first,&quot; he shares. His teaching career began as an adjunct professor at St. Joseph's College, where he quickly fell in love with academia. This passion ultimately drove him to pursue a PhD, allowing him to teach full-time and inspire students at NYU. &quot;Following my graduation from the Center for Global Affairs, I immediately began teaching and found my calling,&quot; Kane explains.</p>

<p>One of Kane's greatest joys is witnessing the transformation of his students. &quot;In their first semester, most students have had very little exposure to research methods, statistics, data analysis,&quot; he notes. &quot;It's my mission to change that and foster excitement rather than dread.&quot; He takes pride in guiding students from their initial uncertainty to a level of proficiency where they can confidently locate, import, analyze, visualize, and present quantitative findings. &quot;Seeing my students go through the full sequence of data courses is a true gift,&quot; he adds.</p> <p>Understanding data and analytic skills is useful not only for professional growth but also in everyday life, including parenting. Students might hear Kane's anecdotes about his 7- and 4-year-old children, making complex concepts relatable. He also keeps it fresh in the classroom by bringing in his passion for music, often using analogies to explain difficult concepts. Though his passion for political science and research has always been his primary focus, sometimes he entertains the idea of a parallel life as a full-time musician. Kane's humor and love for comedies also influence his teaching style, keeping his classes lively and engaging.</p>

<p>Teaching comes with its own set of challenges, but Kane views these as opportunities for growth and improvement. &quot;A challenge is always how to ensure that students are taking courses that they not only enjoy, but that will help them better attain their career goals,&quot; he explains. This challenge was a key impetus for the creation of the specialization in data analytics within the MS in Global Affairs, which aims to provide students with practical, career-oriented skills. The program has seen numerous successes, including outstanding practicum courses, internships, capstone projects with real-world impact, and students securing meaningful jobs in the global affairs space.</p>

<p>Emphasizing the importance of students being prepared to make a tangible impact in their future careers, Kane shares: &quot;Students should know that employers absolutely want people who are passionate, kind, and knowledgeable. But employers also often want someone who can contribute something, who can make the organization better because they are there.&quot; He encourages students to reflect on the unique skills they bring to the table as they transition from academia to the professional world.</p> <p>In today's global social and political climate, Kane has high hopes for future leaders in the field. &quot;I hope that future leaders can channel the passion for a better future, a cleaner world, and cooperation rather than divisions,&quot; he expresses. He believes that maintaining this passion is essential for making a positive impact in global affairs. Kane offers valuable advice for anyone thinking about applying to CGA.</p>

<p>After a semester on sabbatical, Kane is eager to return to the classroom. &quot;I am very excited to be getting back into the classroom and teaching the subjects I love,&quot; he shares. During his sabbatical, he has been engaged in timely research and working on a book project, both of which he believes will enhance his teaching and provide students with fresh, relevant insights.</p> <p>Kane's dedication to teaching and his commitment to preparing the next generation of global leaders make him a standout faculty member at NYU SPS. His practical experience and academic rigor equip students with the skills and perspectives needed to navigate and shape the future of the field.<br> </p> <p>Meet Professor Kane in the classroom by pursuing an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-global-affairs.html" title="MS in Global Affairs">MS in Global Affairs</a> today.</p>