Jenny Januszewski is a Los Angeles Unified School District teacher, organizational ombuds and human resources consultant. In our Q&A below, read about her most memorable experiences at USC as she earned her Master of Dispute Resolution degree – including joining the USC Trojan Marching Band and taking courses in counterterrorism – and how she hopes to utilize her education in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to advance her career in HR and launch a private practice as a divorce and family mediator.
Jenny is also a recipient of the Class of 2024 Graduate & International Program Award from USC Gould School of Law.
Why did you choose to pursue your degree at USC Gould?
Honestly, I was procrastinating on Facebook when an ad popped up for the USC G&IP program. Applications were due within a week, so I rushed to apply. After I got accepted, I researched other programs, both in-person and virtual, and concluded that USC was the most solid choice in terms of being aligned with my goals, timeline and finances.
What sparked your interest in the law and mediation?
I was supposed to go to law school for a JD over a decade ago, but [I was unsure about going to school in] the freezing Midwest. So, I set aside that idea for a while. Then, recently, I utilized a mediator for a divorce. The process was fascinating. I appreciated the power we had to decide things for ourselves rather than having a judge make the decisions.
Can you tell us about your current work in dispute resolution?
I’m a freelance organizational ombuds and HR consultant for mid-size businesses. Additionally, I’m an LAUSD teacher.
What is the most memorable experience or learning from your USC studies?
I will always utilize the education and business connections. But what I’ll hold closest to me is that I had the chance to get the college experience again as an adult. I made amazing friends— the kind of bonds you hoped for during undergrad; went to the football games; and I even joined the USC Spirit of Troy Basketball Band. Yes, you can even join marching band as long as you let them know before summer. I also utilized my leftover units to study percussion at USC Thornton as well as take an extra class at Gould in counterterrorism. It’s an all-around enriching life experience.
How has your degree from USC Gould given you an advantage in your career? What do you want to do next?
I’d like to find myself working in employee relations (HR) since I enjoy labor law and investigations. I’d also like to start a private practice as a divorce and family mediator.
What advice do you have for students who may be interested in following a similar path to yours?
I would say to embrace every moment of it. The year goes by SO fast. We’re all so sad the year has come to an end. On the other side, know that you can have a stronger resume and possibly new career opportunities in just a year. You will still have to fight the crowd for the jobs, but you may be far ahead of where you were a year ago.
To learn more about USC Gould ADR master’s degrees and certificate, please visit the USC Gould Center for Dispute Resolution website.
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