Ania Latrofa
MPA in Data Science for Public Policy (MPA DSPP) Class of 2027
Name: Ania Latrofa
Programme: MPA in Data Science for Public Policy, Class of 2027
Nationality: Italian
SPP offers a path for everyone, with guidance to help each student discover what suits them best.
Can you tell us about your background and why you chose to study the MPA DSPP programme at SPP?
I was born and raised in a small city in southern Italy and moved for the first time at 19 to Bologna, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance. After graduating in July, I moved to London to pursue the MPA in Data Science for Public Policy. I chose this programme because it perfectly combines quantitative methods with public policy, the field I want to specialise in. A key factor in my decision was the wide range of courses available, which allows me to follow the path I prefer while exploring other options if I want to.
How do you think the combination of studying Data Science with public policy will prepare you for your future career goals?
I believe the combination offered by the programme will help me develop essential skills and make me a strong candidate for a variety of roles. Not many programmes offer this ideal mix of data science and public policy, which makes it a unique opportunity to gain both technical/quantitative expertise and policy insight.
What are the highlights from Welcome and your first few weeks?
The highlights of my first weeks at SPP have been the many activities organised by the School, which helped me feel at home in a new environment, meet amazing people, and experience the high-quality preparation provided by the School right from the start.
What have been some of your takeaways from your studies so far? How are you hoping to apply these to your career/next steps?
I have learned to adapt to a new academic system, which requires extra effort but also provides full support and is tailored to students’ needs. My studies have been demanding, as expected at LSE, but I can already see significant improvement. I am confident that this programme will help me become a skilled and hardworking professional in the workplace.
What are you most looking forward to?
I am looking forward to the upcoming socials organised by SPP, as they are great opportunities to build community and exchange ideas, experiences, and cultures with students from all over the world.
What are you hoping to achieve/what are your main objectives whilst at LSE SPP?
I hope to make the most of the activities and growth opportunities offered by the School, build a long-lasting network, and develop the skills to contribute positively to whichever community or organisation I work with in the future.
What is the best thing about being an SPP student?
SPP students have a special experience thanks to the School’s multicultural environment: we can grow and develop our own paths while learning from others, sharing experiences, and receiving high-level, tailored education.
Who would you recommend the programme to?
I would recommend the programme to both those looking to change or specialise their career paths and recent graduates who are still deciding on a field. SPP offers a path for everyone, with guidance to help each student discover what suits them best.
What advice would you give to anyone who is considering studying the MPA DSPP?
I would advise considering both your strengths and areas for improvement. I chose the Data Science component because I wanted to develop my skills in that area. While the workload is demanding, I would choose the same programme again because it helps me grow in areas I wasn’t confident in. Everyone starts from a different place, but no one is left behind, and classmates help each other improve together.
What are your hopes or plans for your future after graduation?
I hope to maintain the relationships I have built with my cohort, fellow SPP students, and the School staff.
Can you describe your SPP experience so far in 3 words?
Global, stimulating, growth
Where is your favourite place in London?
My favourite place in London is South Bank, where you can enjoy the best views of the city along the Thames, take an evening stroll, and relax in local cafés and pubs with friends.
Where is your favourite spot on campus?
My favourite spot on campus is the 5th floor of CBG, the SPP area: it offers quiet places to study, spaces to meet with groups, and a spot to have lunch with classmates.