Senit Ghile: Business Skills and Community Impact

As I begin my second quarter as a Policy Fellow in the Santa Clara County District 3 Supervisor Lee Otto’s Office, I have developed a deeper appreciation for how business skills can support government and community work. My education as a Management Information Systems (MIS) major at the Leavey School of Business has equipped me with tools that directly enhance my contributions in this role. From analyzing data for policy recommendations to drafting clear and concise reports, I have been able to apply my classroom learning to real-world challenges that impact local residents in Santa Clara. 

Local government work often requires translating complex policies or data for a diverse audience, including elected officials and community members. My business education has helped me develop the precision and clarity needed to ensure everyone involved can make informed, data-driven decisions. For instance, when reviewing social service policy referrals related to veteran affairs, I have applied data analysis techniques I practiced in Excel to assess trends and outcomes. These skills have been critical in identifying solutions that are both effective and efficient. 

This experience has shifted how I view business education. It is not just about profit-making but also about problem-solving and building systems that promote equity and social good. Business skills are powerful tools for driving meaningful change in communities.