<p><span class="p-body">If you ask us, the best events in the world are here in NYC. When students begin the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-event-management.html" target="_blank">MS in Event Management</a> program at NYU SPS, they have the opportunity to place themselves in the middle of the action, learning from leading practitioners. Toni Cignarella is a current student whose drive and passion for creating memorable experiences brought her to the program. We recently caught up with her to see what she's learned so far and where she plans to go next.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Born and raised in White Plains, New York, she grew up not far from the city that never sleeps. Today, Tori balances a busy life as a part-time student in the MS in Event Management program while working full-time in corporate event planning. When she's not planning events, she enjoys attending concerts, exploring NYC's restaurant scene, and unwinding with hobbies like crocheting, reading, and writing fiction.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">When first thinking about graduate school, Cignarella was looking for a program that had the connections and networking opportunities she knew would help her take the next step in her career. &quot;NYU has an undeniable network with a robust faculty,&quot; Cignarella explains, recognizing the unique access to industry professionals and the city's event landscape. The chance to learn in a dynamic urban environment and connect with fellow students and professionals was a major draw.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Despite being a part-time student, Cignarella has fully immersed herself in the NYU experience. She balances 6 credits per semester with a full-time job, finding ways to integrate her studies into her work life. &quot;I've been able to take classes outside of my work schedule, both in-person and online,&quot; she shares. One of her proudest accomplishments has been serving as Vice President for SPS' Rainbow Alliance. &quot;I've loved being able to get involved in the university despite only being part-time,&quot; she says, noting the sense of community she's found through the program and student organizations.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Cignarella's coursework has provided practical, real-world applications that have enriched her career in event planning. Currently, she is taking an <i>Event Marketing</i> class where her group is marketing an actual event that the class will host at the end of the semester.&nbsp;</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">The collaborative nature of the class has helped her appreciate the value of teamwork, which is different from her solo efforts in vendor vetting, design, and execution at work. &quot;The teamwork has left me feeling very full,&quot; she adds.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Taking the MS in Event Management program has had a profound impact on Cignarella's confidence and career outlook. When she first applied to the program, she felt uncertain about her career growth and struggled with self-doubt. &quot;This program has reignited a fire to continue to pursue my goals,&quot; she says. The practical applications in every class and the exposure to industry professionals have given her the tools she needs to succeed. &quot;It all feels a bit more in sight now,&quot; Cignarella reflects, crediting the program for helping her see a clear path forward.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Though she's still determining the exact direction of her career, Cignarella envisions herself hosting more ambitious, large-scale events in the future. She is currently weighing her options between corporate and social event planning, keeping an open mind to the opportunities ahead. &quot;I'm hopeful that NYU will guide me to that decision,&quot; she says. As she continues to gain experience, Cignarella is also considering the possibility of starting her own event business one day. For now, her plan is to &quot;soak everything in as a sponge&quot; and keep learning.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">For those about to start their program at NYU SPS, Cignarella says, &quot;Believe in yourself!&quot; She recalls the nerves she felt when applying to the program but urges new students to embrace discomfort and pursue their goals with determination. &quot;NYU has so much to offer and so much opportunity that is begging to be taken,&quot; she says. Her advice? Get involved—whether it's joining a club, attending Fireside Chats, or making the most of networking events. &quot;All it takes is you!&quot; she adds, encouraging students to dive into the wealth of possibilities NYU has to offer.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Ready to take a deep dive into the exciting world of event planning? Pursue an <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ms-in-event-management.html" target="_blank">MS in Event Management</a> at NYU SPS today.</span></p>