Open to opportunities

Jena Gu

@jenagu

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Research-focused education policy analyst dedicated to improving early education.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek a role where I can leverage my research skills to influence education policy and improve early childhood education outcomes.

I am a passionate education policy analyst with a Master’s degree from Harvard University, specializing in Education Policy and Analysis. My work primarily focuses on addressing the early education workforce shortage and enhancing educational outcomes through rigorous research. I have a strong background in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, which I have applied in various projects aimed at improving educational practices and policies.

In my role as a Research Assistant II at WestEd, I have contributed to numerous education research studies, leading participant recruitment, data collection, and analysis. My collaborative work on formative assessments and state-wide randomized control trials has equipped me with the skills to manage complex projects and communicate findings effectively to diverse stakeholders. I am committed to using data-driven insights to inform policy decisions and improve educational systems.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Research Assistant II

WestEd

Aug 2023 - Jul 2025 (1 year 11 months)

Contributed to a variety of education research studies, leading site and participant recruitment and onboarding. Collected and analyzed quantitative and qualitative data, designed and refined study instruments, and coordinated project operations and logistics. Assisted in the dissemination of findings through drafting and editing reports for stakeholders.

Qualitative Data Interviewing Implementation Fidelity

Qualitative Researcher

Harvard University

Jan 2022 - Dec 2022 (11 months)

Conducted qualitative research on early educator experiences during COVID-19 using interview methods. Created an artistic social commentary on research findings with AI art, which was invited for presentation at the 2022 Narrative Project Showcase.

Qualitative Research Interviewing Social Commentary

Program Evaluator

Harvard University

Jan 2022 - Dec 2022 (11 months)

Evaluated parent-educator communication and family engagement practices for a local early learning center. Developed research questions, study design, instruments, and protocols. Led focus interviews to gather insights for the program evaluation.

Research Question Development Research Design Focus Interviews Parent engagement Early Learning Programs

Early Educator

Ethos Early Learning Center

Jan 2019 - Dec 2022 (3 years 11 months)

Practiced early childhood education and care, integrating Montessori and Reggio Emilia pedagogy. Developed and implemented curriculum and social-emotional learning programs. Managed parent communication and engagement to foster a supportive learning environment.

Montessori Reggio Emilia Approach Curriculum Parent engagement

Research Intern

Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy

Sep 2021 - May 2022 (8 months)

Conducted quantitative research, literature reviews, and data collection and analysis focused on ESSER funds usage and early childhood education and care in Massachusetts. Initiated and managed stakeholder communications, performing data reporting and summary writing. Developed an interactive data reporting and visualization resource for lay audiences.

Quantitative Research literature review Data Collection Data Analysis ESSER Funds Data Reporting Data Visualization

Teacher and Tutor

ASC English School

Jan 2019 - Dec 2021 (2 years 11 months)

Developed and implemented curriculum and tutoring interventions for English language learners and other students. Successfully enhanced student learning outcomes through tailored educational strategies. Recognized as the 2020 Recipient of the ASC English Super Teacher Award.

Curriculum Language Learning Lesson planning

Research Assistant

Boston University

Sep 2019 - Dec 2019 (3 months)

Employed econometric modeling to investigate the relationship between the age of first childbirth and earning. Conducted empirical economic research to analyze significant societal impacts.

Econometrics

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Harvard University

Master’s of Education, Education Policy and Analysis

Completed a Master’s of Education in Education Policy and Analysis. The capstone project focused on addressing the early education workforce shortage.

Boston University

Bachelor of Arts, Economics and Philosophy

Activities and societies: Public Humanities Undergraduate Fellow 2019 - 2020

Earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Philosophy. Participated as a Public Humanities Undergraduate Fellow from 2019 to 2020.

Harvard University

Graduate Student, Education in Uncertainty: Narrative Project

Conducted qualitative research on early educator experiences during COVID-19 using interview methods. Created an artistic social commentary on research findings with AI art, invited to present at 2022 Narrative Project Showcase.

Harvard University

Graduate Student, Qualitative Program Evaluation: SolBe Learning Program Evaluation

Evaluated parent-educator communication and family engagement practices for a local early learning center. Developed research questions, study design, instruments and protocols, and led focus interviews.

Boston University

Undergraduate Student, Empirical Economics: The Impact of Women’s Ages at First Birth on Earnings

Employed econometric modeling to investigate the relationship between the age of first childbirth and earning. This research was part of the Empirical Economics program.