10 Years of Cardinal Quarter: Tanner Christensen, ’24
Tanner Christensen, ’24; Associate Consultant at The Bridgespan Group
Cardinal Quarter Placements: Root & Rebound (2021); NYC Commission on Human Rights (2022); Asibey Consulting (2023)
What impact did your Cardinal Quarter experience have on you?
My Cardinal Quarter experiences propelled me into a career in public service. The opportunities to further the mission of an organization, while understanding the nuances of the professional world are things I would have never had the chance to pursue without Cardinal Quarter. My internships helped me tremendously when transitioning to professional work after college, especially the soft skills, like networking, navigating feedback, and even managing a 9-5 schedule. Without Cardinal Quarter, I would not have been able to pursue a future career in public service because I don't think I would have been able to find paid public service opportunities that aligned with my interests.
How did your Cardinal Quarter influence your academic, career, or life choices?
My Cardinal Quarter experiences helped me find what I enjoyed in certain industries, work environments, and projects. My Cardinal Quarter fellowship with the NYC Commission on Human Rights, although a wonderful organization and experience, helped me realize that I did not want to be a lawyer. That was a huge realization for me, as everything (my academics, extracurriculars, and future plans) revolved around my interest in pursuing a law degree. I now realize that there are other ways to engage in public service outside of the legal profession, and that was further clarified with my Cardinal Quarter experience with Asibey Consulting, a boutique nonprofit consulting firm. I am now going back to the nonprofit consulting sector, working at The Bridgespan Group.
What is one memory or lesson from your Cardinal Quarter that has stayed with you?
One of my favorite memories comes from my time at the NYC Commission on Human Rights. I remember sitting in on phone intakes with New Yorkers who alleged that they were being discriminated against in housing, employment, or public accommodations. Listening to their stories was transformative in my experience. After debriefing with the attorney handling the intake, I always felt so motivated to continue with the work. It really helped me realize that behind all the legal research, reading, and writing, there were actual people who courageously came forward trying to find justice.
What advice would you give to a student considering a Cardinal Quarter?
Take the leap! Challenge yourself to take on this unique opportunity, and fully embrace the experience—the good and the bad.
What does public service mean to you today?
Public service to me means channeling personal values, lived experiences, and passions to advance the fundamental needs of our world and its people.
