Our Students & Graduates In Their Words

“Find the missing puzzle piece for yourself, change the world.” After 18 years consulting in employee engagement and organizational change while coaching leaders across sub-Saharan Africa, I found the missing puzzle piece in it all — Wholebeing Happiness. Tal’s unique combination of the best in evidence-based research, ancient wisdom, and practical tools offers us a way to transform ourselves personally, while making a profound difference in our organizations and communities. Through the MA in Happiness Studies, I am able to work more effectively with business leaders to bring the next Happiness Revolution to life — post-pandemic, something that our world needs now more than ever. The HSA student and alumni community is very special — a diverse group of people from every continent who are passionate about being together, forming deep connections, and working supportively to bring real change to life. “As I always say, there’s no better time!”

I’ve always felt I was on a personal quest for happiness—even using “happy” in every password I created for years. That quiet inner search led me to the Master’s in Happiness Studies program, which began as a personal journey and has since evolved into a professional calling. The tools, mindset, and insights I’ve gained have not only changed the way I see the world but also how I lead and support others in my work. The program’s balance of flexibility, community, and support has been incredible. From engaging with professors like Phoebe, Enrique, Arlene, and especially Ashley—who truly read and responded to my work—to being inspired by Tal’s vision and dedication, I felt seen, heard, and uplifted throughout. I’ve connected deeply with fellow students, grown in confidence, and found clarity in how I want to serve others. Being part of the first cohort was more meaningful than I ever imagined. I genuinely feel like a better, more whole person because of this experience."

I flew from Shanghai to New York for graduation—and it was absolutely worth the journey. As a mother of two, I joined the Master of Arts in Happiness Studies to become a better parent, and I’ve grown into so much more: a coach, a community leader, and someone who now supports other moms on their own journeys. The program challenged me, yes—but it was joyful. I loved the content, and even the 10 hours a week felt manageable because I believed in what I was learning. This wasn’t just an academic degree—it was personal transformation. I apply what I’ve learned every day, from my parenting to the workshops I now lead. Happiness is not abstract—it’s the fabric of daily life, and this program taught me how to live that truth fully. What surprised me most was the sense of connection. Weekly webinars, learning groups, and the retreat helped me form deep relationships with people across the world. The retreat, in particular, allowed me to turn knowledge into practice—and I’m still using the exercises months later. The professors were encouraging and kind, always making me feel supported, even when I was unsure about the tech. Now, as the program ends, I’m already looking back at the materials, not because I have to—but because I want to. I told my husband just the other day: this experience has been one of the most valuable things I’ve done. Truly, this journey has been worthwhile.