5Q: Britte Jessen-Balint

IN CONTROL: Britte Jessen-Balint, controller at Envision Technology Advisors in Pawtucket, speaks with Jeremy Girard, director of marketing. / PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO
IN CONTROL: Britte Jessen-Balint, controller at Envision Technology Advisors in Pawtucket, speaks with Jeremy Girard, director of marketing. / PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO

1 What was the catalyst behind your application for an R.I. Commerce Corp.-funded Wavemaker Fellowship?

The Wavemaker Fellowship will allow me to pay off my student loans faster and, as a result, I can invest the money I would be paying back toward those loans in additional learning opportunities or other pursuits.

2 Why is this form of reimbursement [to help cover student-loan debts] so important for young professionals?

Programs such as the Wavemaker Fellowship reward those individuals for making the personal and financial sacrifices required when investing in their professional development. It’s important for young professionals to see there are programs [that] will help them pay for training that may be beneficial in growing their career. When [such] programs are available, people are more likely to make smart investments in themselves.

- Advertisement -

3 Do you think there are enough state-funded resources encouraging Rhode Island-trained talent to remain in the state?

Many Rhode Islanders want to stay in the state, but they are challenged by the fact that average salaries here may not make it financially viable. Programs such as the Wavemaker Fellowship are an investment in Rhode Island’s growing talent pool and a step toward showing young professionals our state is a place where they can stay and build a career and a future.

4 What impact do you think the Wavemaker Fellowship will have on Rhode Island’s economy?

These fellowships provide candidates with a precious commodity – freedom of choice. The funds can give young professionals the financial freedom to get an apartment or home of their own. That freedom could also encourage recipients to start businesses and help fuel the future of our state economy.

5 What else could the state be doing to support young entrepreneurs?

Programs that provide training grants to employers who invest in their people is one area that Rhode Island needs to continue investing in. I work for a technology company and our training needs are extensive. We want our people to be the best and we invest heavily in their development. Programs that reward employers who proactively invest in employee growth and training will help ensure the young talent our state produces will stay in Rhode Island. •

No posts to display