Staff Spotlight: Amanda Jagus

Q: So, tell us more about yourself. How did you end up working in education? 

My grandparents immigrated to the United States from India and they always emphasized the importance of education to my brother and me. I also have a few teachers in my family, so when I decided to pursue a degree in International Relations, I was interested in the intersection of development and education.

In my first job I worked with international students seeking attendance at U.S. universities. I enjoyed being able to help others achieve their educational goals! In my next position, I continued with that theme in mind while working on a virtual exchange program that connected ESL teachers globally to professional development courses and webinars. Being able to work with and learn from English educators all over the world has been a highlight of my career so far. 

Q: How did you first hear about TechChange?

I actually found TechChange while researching instructional design fellowships. I am so glad that I did because I was excited to find a company committed to the power of online education and events! This intersection matched perfectly to the work I’ve done in the past working in online learning and professional development. 

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of working at TechChange so far?

My favorite part of working at TechChange so far is how technology is openly embraced and utilized. That may seem like an obvious answer however, I had the opportunity of working with online courses before and after the pandemic started. Seeing virtual learning and gathering change from an “option” to a “necessity” due to the pandemic was powerful. I’ve seen first hand that technology can make courses and events more accessible and inclusive. I’m so excited to be a part of that at TechChange.

Q: What excites you about this role?

I’m excited about the opportunity to see events from so many different and important topic areas come to life. I am also excited about the great co-workers I have met during my onboarding process. It has been very enriching to be surrounded by others passionate about the power of virtual learning and events.

Q: Anything you look forward to working on or learning at TechChange in the next year?

I’m looking forward to learning more about hybrid event execution. I’ve seen in my past experience how powerful it is to offer a seat at the table to those who cannot physically be in the room whether it is due to accessibility or travel expenses. The idea of a hybrid option excites me because it marries the power of in person interaction with the inclusiveness of virtual events. I’m very interested in seeing how events will operate as the world starts to open up. 

Q: Lastly, what’s something that not a lot of people know about you?

As much as connecting with people online fuels my work, I am a true introvert through and through! I really thrive when I have a good balance of connecting and unplugging. It is so important to me to have alone time to reset and recharge. When I’m spending time by myself I like to go on walks, knit, and take care of my plants.