CIEE Alumni Profile - Mariel Tavakoli

Mariel Tavakoli, CIEE Prague, Spring 2012
By: Liana Trebour, Social Media and Marketing Intern, Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement

Mariel Tavakoli studied abroad at CIEE Prague in spring semester 2012. Since graduating from the College of William and Mary in 2013, Mariel has built a career in higher education marketing and now serves as a Customer Success Lead for Circuit Virtual Tours. Her international experiences continue to shape her career and creative pursuits. We sat down with Mariel to hear about her time abroad and the advice she has for current and future CIEE alumni.

You took some unique courses during your semester in Prague. Can you tell us about that?
"As part of my program, I took courses on Jewish History and Contemporary Czech Culture, and did an internship that included visiting museums and graffiti sites, and attending concerts, films, and events. Having classes around the city not only deepened my understanding of the subjects but also my connection to Prague and the Czech Republic."

How has studying abroad influenced your career path?
"Studying abroad with CIEE increased my ability to easily adapt to different work environments and cultures when moving between cities and countries, and roles and responsibilities as my career interests have evolved over time."

What is next for you?
"After contributing articles for years on various websites and blogs, I am now hoping to support study abroad students and travelers through writing novels based on my experiences studying, working, and living abroad over the past 14 years."

What advice would you give to someone heading abroad for the first time?
"The beginning will be a blur of fun, friends, and new adventures, but making time to slow down, reflect, and explore on your own will be extremely enriching in the end."

Any career advice for CIEE alumni?
“Keep in touch after your experience abroad and don’t hesitate to reach out to your new friends and connections as you continue in your career or travels. You never know when paths will cross again, and authentically creating and fostering your network can lead to exciting opportunities even years later."