There were three reasons I decided to apply to GraSPP: I wanted to do a master’s degree with a practical political orientation, learn more about Japan and East Asia, and study at an internationally well-connected university. GraSPP had an attractive offer with the MPP/IP for this purpose. The master’s program also stood out for its high flexibility in the choice of courses as well as the possibility to study at other graduate schools.
I have not regretted the decision to join GraSPP for a single day. Every day I learn—not only in class but also from my fellow students. What makes studying here very special are the people. The students all have very diverse backgrounds. This applies not only to their countries of origin but also to their professions and life phases: recent bachelor’s graduates from a wide range of disciplines study together with civil servants, people from the private sector and development workers. In conversations and discussions, my horizon has been greatly broadened by these many different perspectives and backgrounds.
Classes in GraSPP are characterized by their close contact between students and professors. Most courses are small, which encourages interaction and discussion. Many professors have previously worked for ministries, international organizations, or the private sector. They not only bring exciting anecdotes and an extensive network but also have an eye for practical issues. This helps to strongly link the academic to the real-world problems that await policymakers.
The MPP/IP has also had a significant impact on my personal and professional development. After graduating, I originally wanted to work at the intersection of policy and communications. However, after taking several energy-related subjects at GraSPP, my interest in this field grew stronger. I started working as a teaching assistant for two professors in this area and became more and more involved with the topic in my private life. After graduation, I will now start working for one of the largest European energy companies in the fall. I could not imagine a more exciting job—especially in today’s times.
Even though it is hard for me to say goodbye to Japan and GraSPP, I am still cheerful. I am returning with a lot of new knowledge and experiences—but most importantly, with many new friendships that I have made within GraSPP. The people I have met here have left a lasting impression on me and will continue to do so in the future. I now know friends in many countries and am already making plans to visit them all. After all, that is also GraSPP: a network of impressive personalities from all over the world.