July 22, 2019

Willingboro, N.J., resident plans a career in government and criminal justice in Washington, D.C., after customizing a major to fit her career goals.

For Aysha Hackett, Washington, D.C., seems like a logical place to start the future she’s mapped out for herself in government, intelligence, and law. Last May, the Willingboro, N.J., resident graduated from Centenary University with a degree in political and governmental affairs and a concentration in foreign policy.

Hackett is one of seven students featured in the cover story of the most recent issue of the Centenarian, the University’s alumni magazine. Called “The Future U,” the story spotlights outstanding students and the futures they envision as a result of earning a Centenary University degree. The story is part of a wider campaign of the same name, which highlights Centenary’s career-focused educational approach.

As an undergraduate, Hackett changed her major twice before working with her adviser to customize an academic program that fit her career goals. She explored her options through internships with the United States Courts and the Office of the Attorney General in New Jersey. Hackett values Centenary’s personalized approach to education, which gave her the flexibility to test different career paths. “I’m big on vibes and energy,” she said. “I visited many schools, but when I set foot on the Centenary campus, it was just like a warm embrace.”

With her Centenary degree in hand, she’s ready to seek opportunities in the nation’s capital. “I’m excited, but nervous,” Hackett explained. “I ask myself, ‘What’s next?’”

ABOUT CENTENARY UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1867 by the Newark Conference of the United Methodist Church, Centenary University’s academic program integrates a solid liberal arts foundation with a strong career orientation. This mix provides an educational experience that prepares students to succeed in the increasingly global and interdependent world. The University’s main campus is located in Hackettstown, N.J., with its equestrian facility in Washington Township. The Centenary University School of Professional Studies offers degree programs at two locations, Parsippany and Edison, as well as online and at corporate sites throughout New Jersey.