Olivera Jankovska’s degree in agricultural and applied economics offers career opportunities with no boundaries

Olivera Jankovska’s journey is a powerful reminder that an agricultural and applied economics education provides a versatile skill set that can be applied in countless industries. 

After graduating in 2011 with a master’s degree from Virginia Tech’s Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Jankovska initially felt unsure about how her expertise would translate to other industries. After landing a role in the energy sector as a commercial analyst, she quickly realized that the analytical and modeling skills gained at Virginia Tech were not only transferable but relevant to her job.

"At first, I thought, ‘What can I contribute here?’ But the training I received in applied economics, particularly in research and commodities, made me realize how well-prepared I was for the job," Jankovska said. 

Over time, Jankovska transitioned from the energy sector into finance, consulting, humanitarian work, and eventually education, demonstrating the broad applicability of her Virginia Tech education. 

"I’ve changed careers and worked hard to succeed in each one," Jankovska said. "You don’t have to stick to a narrow path. You can be anything with the right foundation.” 

For Jankovska, that foundation was her master’s degree in agricultural and applied economics and a graduate certificate in international trade and development.

"Virginia Tech, and particularly the department, equipped me with invaluable knowledge that I continue to apply in every role throughout my career," Jankovska said.

Today, Jankovska works in community development as the director of education for the City of Houston, where she uses her training in applied economics to address pressing issues, such as educational disparities and financial literacy. 

She is dedicated to empowering youth from cradle to career by creating a safe environment. Her approach includes incorporating young people's voices into policies and programs to ensure Houston's growth meets their needs and aspirations.

"As an economist, I focus on the efficient and equitable distribution of resources,” Jankovska said. “I use research to identify community issues, collaborate with local organizations, and implement action plans that directly address these challenges."

Helping empower global citizens

Jankovska, who speaks eight languages, has served as the UNICEF USA community engagement associate for the Southwest Region, where she empowered youth with the resources and skills to be effective global citizens.

She is the founder of Atlas Ink, a company focused on supporting caregivers, parents, and educators in nurturing multicultural children. She is also the author of the "My Homeland" book series, which Atlas Ink publishes, to offer personalized children's books and educational materials designed to inspire curiosity and a love for cultural roots.

Jankovska, originally from Macedonia, is raising a trilingual son, who is the inspiration behind the company. She says she wants to help him, as a second-generation American, appreciate his Indian, Macedonian, and American heritage.

"We are raising the next generation of peacemakers,” Jankovska said. “These books help children and empower them to share their story."

Jankovska envisions a future in academia and wants to continue to mentor and educate the next generation of leaders.

"That’s why I want to pursue a doctoral program,” she said. “I want to be a mentor who helps others discover their potential and tackle the challenges they face."