Emiriana Stanishja ’24
Degree: Master of Public Administration
Hometown: Kruja, Albania

Emiriana Stanishja arrived at the Brooks School with a clear vision: to find meaningful work in international development, focusing on economic policy and sustainable finance. Previously, she worked in public debt management at Albania’s Ministry of Finance. She was drawn to the Cornell MPA program for its economic and financial policy concentration and the chance to earn a certificate in environmental finance and impact investing – both of which aligned closely with her career aspirations.

I loved the inspiring faculty who were always supportive, the vibrant school traditions that brought everyone together, and the campus environment that provided a balance between academics and relaxation.

“I had the chance to develop leadership skills and connect with like-minded peers,” she said. “I also loved the inspiring faculty who were always supportive, the vibrant school traditions that brought everyone together, and the campus environment that provided a balance between academics and relaxation.”

A highlight for Stanishja was a class project on green financing in developing countries. “The project aimed to explore how green bonds can be an effective tool for financing environmentally sustainable projects in these regions,” she said. “The goal was to propose solutions that could make green bonds more effective and accessible in driving sustainable development.”

Beyond academics, Stanishja thrived in student organizations, serving as vice president of external relations for the Cornell Public Affairs Society and vice president of the Albanian Student Association.

Today, Stanishja works as a consultant at the World Bank, focusing on external debt data. “I have built a strong foundation in both finance and policy,” she said. “The connections I’ve made with faculty, alumni, and professionals have been invaluable.”

Her advice to future Brooks students: “Don’t be afraid to explore different courses and find what truly interests you, even if it’s outside your comfort zone,” she said. “Your time at Brooks is what you make of it, so be proactive in seeking out experiences that align with your goals.”