<p>After graduate school, Mariya Breyter was invited as a post-graduate scholar to Stanford University, where she conducted research in computational linguistics. This period was a significant time for her, filled with research, conferences, and the publication of her first book.</p> <p>Although her initial aspiration was to remain in academia, the lack of opportunities led her to learn Java and take her first job as a software engineer. Over two decades later, Breyter&nbsp;returned to academia as an adjunct instructor at NYU SPS, bringing her extensive industry experience to her classes.</p> <p>She reflects, &quot;I am so happy I was not hired into academia directly after graduation. I always say that every challenge is an opportunity. What seemed like a failure allowed me to gain experience that I now find essential to be successful as an educator.&quot; We were excited to learn more about Breyter's teaching philosophy and insight.</p>

<p>Inspired by Liz Wiseman's book &quot;Multipliers,&quot; Breyter&nbsp;sees teaching as a way to amplify the potential of her students. She explains,&nbsp;</p> <p>&quot;As university professors, we become the catalysts for our students' growth. In teaching, we multiply our knowledge and value by equipping our students with the tools and insights they need to succeed.&quot;&nbsp;</p> <p>At NYU SPS, this role is particularly crucial as it involves teaching mature and accomplished students who are already on a path to success but seek to elevate their careers to the next level.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Breyter&nbsp;values student feedback and continuously revises her courses to enhance their relevance and effectiveness. For instance, she updated case studies in her Organizational Transformation course to include modern, diverse examples relevant to current global companies. She also shifted from closed-book quizzes to more practical, narrative consulting assignments. This focus on continuous improvement ensures that her students are well-prepared for real-world challenges.</p> <p>Breyter's success as an educator is measured by the achievements of her students. She proudly shares, &quot;I have taught a large number of highly accomplished professionals who now hold leadership roles at Amazon, Goldman Sachs, PwC, and many other leading companies.&quot; Balancing her time between family, a demanding full-time job, writing books, and teaching at NYU presents a challenge. However, she emphasizes the importance of good time management and prioritization skills, as well as the support she receives from NYU SPS.</p> <p>Breyter&nbsp;finds joy in teaching various courses, each offering unique and exciting opportunities. She mentions, &quot;When I teach agile project management, we simulate a large-scale incremental delivery. When I teach organizational transformation, we analyze multiple case studies. When I teach project management principles in IT, I use all 20+ years of my professional experience.&quot; She looks forward to teaching a new course on communication in Fall 2024, highlighting the importance of this skill in the professional world.</p>

<p>Breyter&nbsp;encourages students to view every challenge as an opportunity. She advises, &quot;Challenges allow us to learn, change for the better, and open our minds to new ways of thinking. When we fail, it hurts, but it also prepares us for future success.&quot; She emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning, comparing career development to fishing, where sometimes changing tactics is necessary to achieve success.</p> <p>In her role at one of the largest technology companies, Breyter&nbsp;prioritizes technological innovation. She encourages students to leverage modern technology in their studies and work. For example, she developed an interactive generative AI-based app on Organizational Transformation, which she now uses in her classes.</p>

<p><span class="p-body">Breyter&nbsp;shares the powerful concept of Day 1, inspired by <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/executive-insights/customers/sustaining-a-day-1-culture/" target="_blank" title="Amazon's philosophy">Amazon's philosophy</a>. She encourages students to maintain the curiosity and enthusiasm they felt on their first day at NYU, emphasizing continuous innovation and growth. &quot;Stay agile, curious, and always willing to experiment. By doing so, you'll not only excel in your studies but also make a lasting impact on this world through your continuous growth and innovation.&quot;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Join Mariya Breyter and other forward-thinking professionals in the classroom when you pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-project-management.html" title="MS in Project Management">MS in Project Management</a>.</span></p>