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What was your purpose in enrolling in GraSPP?
Coming from an undergraduate background in international development, I have always been captivated by Japan’s unique and successful development model, which significantly influenced my decision to study public policy in Japan. My community work across various social issues revealed that specific policy designs often lie at the root of many inequities, yet also possess the potential to address numerous challenges. This realisation prompted me to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Policy at GraSPP that would provide both practical capacities and international perspectives on policymaking.
As I near the completion of my studies, I am confident that the MPP/IP program’s rigorous coursework, extensive professional opportunities, and robust international network of esteemed public policy practitioners have thoroughly prepared me to contribute to addressing global challenges.
What was attractive or stimulating about GraSPP? Please share your memorable experiences/courses in GraSPP
One unforgettable aspect of my time at GraSPP is the unwavering support from both students and staff. This support extended beyond academics, encompassing personal and professional aspects such as job hunting, life transitions, leisure activities, and resource sharing. Witnessing everyone’s willingness to help each other was incredibly inspiring.
With the encouragement of the GraSPP community, I ventured outside my comfort zone and pursued unforeseen opportunities, even beyond Japan. The international network provided by GraSPP, including the GPPN conference and exchange program, allowed me to further enrich my global perspective in cities like São Paulo and Paris. These experiences also enabled me to delve into policy areas I had no prior expertise in, such as green transitions, cybersecurity, and aerospace.
The group of peers with whom I attended the GPPN conference in Brazil in March 2023 exposed me to diverse ways of thinking and approaching issues that are the most concerning to young people from other policy schools. My team’s policy proposal unexpectedly earned the Best Prize award, an achievement that reflects the collective support and contributions of the GraSPP community.
This experience motivated me to continue to step out of my comfort zone and led me to explore unfamiliar course subjects during my fall exchange semester at Sciences Po. There, I engaged with local organisations supporting the elderly and asylum-seeker populations to immerse myself and contribute meaningfully to the community. Finally, extending my stay in Paris with an internship at the European Space Agency (ESA) exposed me to the aerospace sector and allowed me to contribute the knowledge and skills acquired during my first year at GraSPP.
While in Paris, I had the privilege of spending time not only with my GraSPP friends from the previous year but also with new connections from SciencesPo, Cité Universitaire, and ESA. I even reconnected with a GraSPP professor whose course I had taken in my first semester. This experience underscored how easy it is to connect with someone from the GraSPP community, regardless of location, highlighting the strength of the GraSPP network.
What has GraSPP meant to your life? Any advice or comments for the latent students?
GraSPP has been a deeply transformative experience, offering me not just intellectual growth but also profound personal development. The last two years were filled with milestones alongside challenges that tested my limits, shaping me into a more resilient individual. The stimulating academic environment, diverse perspectives of my peers, and guidance of esteemed professors at GraSPP have kept me engaged and motivated.
I wholeheartedly encourage prospective students to embark on their own journey at GraSPP. Approach this experience with an open heart and mind, for the intellectual stimulations and people you will encounter are bound to leave a lasting impact. Engage with the community, forge meaningful connections, and remember that you are never alone – a supportive network awaits you every step of the way.