MSc in Development Studies, 2011
Consultant, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP)
Please describe your career path to date
Prior to LSE, I was working as a Marketing Executive in the media industry. I have always been interested in working in the development sector and I decided to pursue a degree in Development Studies. My graduate study in development was a one year expedition of self-discovery that transformed my life completely. Upon graduation, I applied for an internship programme at UN ESCAP, Thailand and was luckily accepted. I took up another internship offer at The United Nations Office for REDD+ Coordination in Indonesia (UNORCID) in Jakarta to work on REDD+ mechanisms in Indonesia. While I was working as an intern in Jakarta, I received an email from my senior in ESCAP asking if I would be interested in accepting an assignment at UN ESCAP. The answer was an immediate yes!
Has your career path developed as you planned?
Working in a multilateral organisation has always been an aspiration although it is extremely competitive to get in. I believe the internship opportunity to show case my skill sets and the LSE brand name proved to be a competitive advantage for me.
Tell us about your current job
The LSE experience has been extremely helpful in adapting to a fast paced multi-cultural environment like that in the UN. ESCAP is headquartered in Thailand but the staff members are from all across the world. I work in the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Division of ESCAP. I was one of the core team members for the theme study titled '‘Building Resilience to Natural Disasters and Major Economic Crises’ an annual publication of ESCAP. My work primarily entails working on research and technical papers on the use of Space Technology applications in DRR and Sustainable Development. I also researched on the issues of Drought in the Asia-Pacific region and presented a research report on the socio-economic effects of Drought.
Why did you choose this job?
International exposure and a fast paced challenging work environment was my main motivation to work in UN.
What do you like most about your job? Is there anything that you dislike?
The UN provides an excellent learning opportunity amongst a cohort of brilliant experts and professionals. Each individual is committed to the cause of development. However, the UN is a bureaucratic organization and one has to learn to deal with the endemic bureaucratic hurdles and delays.
What career plans do you have for the future?
I am planning to study further by pursuing another degree in Public Policy. I have just finished my applications to graduate schools.
How has your time at LSE helped you so far in your career?
The LSE pedigree and brand name is respected all across the world and is situated in the heart of London, one of the best cities in the world. Moreover, it gives you an opportunity to build long lasting friendships and learn about diverse cultures.
What advice would you give to prospective or current LSE students?
My advice would be 'do not get disappointed if you don't land up your dream job right away.' Most positions at UN require several years of work experience. Young professionals can consider taking the YPP exam for P2 positions at the UN. For recent graduates my advice would be to get involved in volunteer work and internship opportunities to gain experience and build valuable networks. It's more important to figure your true calling and work on areas you are passionate about.
Overall, how do you look back on your LSE experience?
The LSE experience has been a unique and fulfilling experience. Every day at LSE has been full of opportunities and excitement. Try and make the most of it.