Pros
Working at GLN has been a truly rewarding experience. From day one, I felt like I was part of a supportive and inclusive team where my personal growth was not only encouraged, but actively nurtured. The Executive Director (Andrew Brown) has been an incredible mentor, allowing me to develop both professionally and personally in ways I never anticipated. Unlike larger organizations where you're often just a cog in the machine, GLN’s size means that every individual has an opportunity to truly make an impact. I was given the freedom to take on meaningful projects across a variety of areas — from Operations to Marketing, Advocacy/Outreach, and Teacher Support. This was a huge opportunity to grow my skill set, gain confidence, and take ownership of decisions, all while receiving feedback and guidance when needed. I’ll never forget the time when I was given the responsibility to lead a new outreach initiative. Andrew didn’t micromanage but rather provided me with the space to make decisions, and then trusted me to take the lead. His support was always there when I needed it, but he also empowered me to think independently, which has made me a more confident and capable professional. This sense of autonomy and trust is rare, and it’s one of the most valuable aspects of working at GLN. Additionally, the environment here is one of empathy, respect, and genuine care. Andrew always strives to create a space where people of all backgrounds can thrive. I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse group of individuals, including interns from all over the world, which has been an enriching experience. Andrew ensures that everyone is treated fairly, and he fosters a collaborative, non-political atmosphere where ideas and growth are prioritized. The community of interns and staff is exceptional, and the level of networking opportunities is vast. Through GLN, I have been able to meet and connect with passionate individuals in the DC area, including other young professionals who share a commitment to social justice and education. I’ve had the chance to attend relevant external events and grow my professional network, which has been incredibly beneficial.
Cons
While the organization is small and has a limited budget, this actually means that each team member is given a lot of freedom and responsibility. The Executive Director is very thoughtful in how resources are allocated, focusing on investing in the people who truly invest in the organization. It’s not about big salaries or lavish offices — it’s about making a real impact with the resources at hand. There’s also the fact that the team is relatively lean. This means that every member of the team, including interns, gets to wear multiple hats and gain exposure to different areas of the organization. While some may perceive this as a lack of structure, I see it as a huge opportunity for growth. Andrew’s approach to leadership is flexible and dynamic, allowing everyone to find their strengths and develop new skills as needed. One thing that I’ve appreciated is Andrew’s leadership style, which is centered around fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. While he is based in remotely (and comes to DC often), communication is never an issue. We have regular meetings and there’s always an open channel for discussing ideas or challenges. Perhaps it would be more of a "con" if you are a poor communicator and you are uncomfortable with phone, email, Gchat, and Zoom.