Before joining the LSE MPA programme, I…
I was working in New Zealand as a software engineer. I loved my engineering degree but I wanted to be more involved in the process of strategy, policy and business decision making. Through talking to people and finding out about different graduate options I came across the MPA and it seemed like it would let allow me to expand my horizons and give me the space to explore a variety of different options.
Why did you choose to join the LSE’s MPA programme?
Once I decided that the MPA was my programme of choice I explored a variety of universities. Each seemed more appealing than the next! I was incredibly lucky - in the end, through LSE’s dual degree program, I was able to experience both the LSE and Columbia. The LSE provided me with one of the best educations in the world in theories around policy making and economics, and Columbia gave me exposure to the US education system and its structure of ‘concentrations’. Having degrees from both universities on my CV is very valuable, and I also fell in love with both London and New York, which was a nice by-product.
How has the LSE MPA programme influenced your career?
The MPA programme was definitely my gateway into a varied, interesting and fulfilling career (so far!). I worked for a short time in economic policy, followed by a stint in management consultancy (Bain & Co) and I now work in partnerships and business development at Google. For me personally, I don’t have a specific career that I want to end up in - I’m happy as long as I have inspiring people and teams around me, a challenging job that I can get my teeth into, and the option to keep experiencing and exploring different domains. The MPA is a perfect grounding for restless and impatient people!
What was your favourite thing about your time on the MPA programme at the LSE?
My classmates were the best part of the programme - I learnt a lot from them and was constantly driven through their passion and energy to reach levels of potential I didn’t realise I had.
What would be your top tip for students joining the programme?
It’s probably the last time you are at university (save for a few going onto PhDs), and I would treat it as such! Get the most out of everything the programme and the university has to offer!