Feature Articles
Author: Elise Huerta (Association for Asian Studies)
Keywords: Asian Studies, Careers
How to Cite: Huerta, E. (2026) “Asian Studies Beyond the Academy: Interview with Dr. Samuel Galler”, Education About Asia. 29(2). doi: https://doi.org/10.65959/eaa.1877
As Area Studies departments and Title VI Centers across the country grapple with decreasing enrollments, dramatic budget cuts, and even permanent closures, it is more important than ever that we are able to articulate the value of Asian Studies education as it relates to job preparation. As a part of this effort, Education About Asia has launched a new video series, “Asian Studies Beyond the Academy,” featuring interviews with leaders in the corporate, non-profit, and government sectors about how the study of Asia has informed their career development.
For the second feature in our “Asian Studies Beyond the Academy” video series, EAA Editor, Elise Huerta, interviews Dr. Samuel Galler, Vice President of Data Science at Fidelity Investments. Dr Galler holds a BA and MA in East Asian Studies from Harvard University and a PhD in International Development from Oxford University. In our conversation, Dr. Galler reflects on the triumphs and challenges of his nonlinear career trajectory and offers valuable advice for Asian Studies degree holders navigating the job market in the age of AI.
For other videos in the series, please visit the EAA YouTube channel.