Tell us about your journey since graduating from LSE
Since graduating, my career has been anything but linear. My first role in corporate consulting taught me how to embrace ambiguity, collaborate with cross-functional teams and master the art of communication and influence. But I quickly realised I was craving more autonomy. That realisation led me to pivot to startups, where I partnered with creators to launch digital products, collectively generating six figures in revenue. Later, I joined a New York based fintech, where I built three departments from the ground up, ultimately leading Customer Operations & Client Success, learning the scrappy resilience it takes to create something from zero. These experiences gave me the confidence to launch my own business in late 2023—a moment that was equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. It’s been a journey shaped by courage, curiosity, and trusting my intuition. And today, I help leaders, companies and communities take control of their careers and lives by defining their own aligned path, just as I’ve done for myself.
If you could tell your younger student self one piece of wisdom, what would it be and why?
Never stop following your curiosity and always prioritise who you work with over what you do. Early in my career, I didn’t give much thought to who I worked with, but over time, I realised that the right mentors can shape your trajectory in unimaginable ways. Don’t be afraid to shoot your shot, reach out to people you admire and ask to work with them. The worst they can say is no, leaving you where you are, but the best? You raise your standards, gain invaluable wisdom and accelerate your growth. I continue to do this and it’s how I’ve secured opportunities I wasn’t the most qualified for but positioned myself to win.
How has studying in the Department of Government helped you since graduation?
While I didn’t follow a traditional Government career path, studying at LSE gave me two invaluable gifts: a foundation for critical thinking and the credibility of the LSE brand. That credibility opened doors early in my career, helping me secure a great graduate job and visa sponsorship, which allowed me to stay in the UK.
What’s the one piece of career guidance that has most impacted you?
"Build relationships before you need them." Invest in your network with genuine care and curiosity, not with a transactional mindset. One of my favourite mantras is, "Go positive and go first." It reminds me to lead with generosity, as people can sense your intentions if they aren’t genuine. The best connections are rooted in giving, not taking and they often bring opportunities you never anticipated.
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
Listening to my intuition and trusting myself to pivot multiple times. With each step, I gained more confidence and clarity about who I am and what I truly want, ultimately leading me to build my own business. The highlight has been creating something deeply aligned with who I am—a business that excites me every morning, allows me to set my own rules and empowers others to rewrite their stories in ways they once thought impossible. The most rewarding part? Watching my clients step into their power, own their value and stop playing small. There’s nothing more fulfilling than witnessing their growth and transformation.
What is your fondest memory from LSE?
It’s the small, everyday moments that stand out: grabbing coffee at Wright’s Bar in between classes, AU events in the Quad (and later at Zoo Bar), late night study sessions in the library during exam periods and the lively discussions with friends after lectures. I also loved attending the LSE events where I had access to some of the brightest, most influential leaders. Those experiences were both humbling and inspiring, reminding me of the unique opportunity to study at LSE. Being surrounded by passionate, ambitious peers and having access to such incredible knowledge and opportunities was a constant source of motivation.
Cristina will be joining us on Thursday 30 January from 6.30pm to 8pm for an alumni fireside chat. All registered Department of Government students are welcome to attend. Sign up for your ticket.