Hannah Salazar
Master of Public Administration (MPA), Class of 2027
Name: Hannah Salazar
Programme and year: Master of Public Administration (MPA) Class of 2027
Nationality: American
I'm most looking forward to hearing from experts in the policy field and informing my next career steps. I have a deep interest in being more involved in a global capacity, and I know that LSE will be connect with incredible scholars, career professionals, policy professionals, data scientists, and more to push and inform me of my next steps.
Can you tell us about your background and why you chose to study the MPA programme at SPP?
I have a background in working in government and nonprofits. I've professionally worked for the last 4.5 years across U.S. Government in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Coming from a government and health based background, I chose the MPA programme to begin making a shift to global based work and understand global institutions and policy making in a better and more nuanced way.
What are the highlights from Welcome and your first few weeks?
I've absolutely treasured spending time with my new colleagues from the start of Welcome to my first few weeks. The SPP creates a fantastic climate to easily meet new classmates, exchange ideas, and share our experiences through our formal programming and informally creating a collaborative environment. I've also enjoyed getting to know my new home in London and taking the time to explore the city. Whether that be a new cafe, library, park, restaurant, or West End show, it's been fantastic!
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've been challenged and encouraged to think outside of my comfort zone - which is exactly what I was hoping to take away from my studies! I went into this programme wanting to know more than just the "what" of policymaking. Our studies have pushed us to consider critically assessing and evaluating data, thinking about now just what we've been given, but what is missing, and to be innovative in our thinking. These are all things I wanted to improve and grow upon to be a more effective policymaker. That's exactly what I'm hoping to bring into my next steps - to not just talk the talk, but be able to critically evaluate and understand what policies are best suited for a country or body.
What are you most looking forward to?
I'm most looking forward to hearing from experts in the policy field and informing my next career steps. I have a deep interest in being more involved in a global capacity, and I know that LSE will be connect with incredible scholars, career professionals, policy professionals, data scientists, and more to push and inform me of my next steps.
What are your main objectives whilst you at LSE SPP?
My main objective is to become a more critical policy analyst. I've previously focused on logistics and operations for government, but I want to recentre myself to develop a more critical eye for what is effective policy and how we can evaluate and make effective policy. My goal in life has always been to simply help people and make their lives better. I know policy is the way to do that, and I think becoming a better policymaker is the way to achieve that goal. I know that being at the SPP will assist with it as well!
What is the best thing about being a SPP student?
So many parts of being an SPP student are the best! The community of the SPP is the best part. No matter where you go, especially on the SPP's home of the 5th floor of CBG, you'll run into your professors, colleagues, SPP programme team, and feel like you yourself are at home! I love being a part of this community, go from working in a study group to having nuanced political conversations, meeting new people, and learning about someone's story. It's the best!
Who would you recommend the programme to?
I would recommend this programme to anyone who wants to understand the why and how of policymaking. The programme is rigorous and challenging, but it's also open and available to people from every single background and walk of life. If you want to make a difference and learn how to practically do so, this is the right programme!
What advice would you give to anyone who is considering studying the MPA?
If you want to be challenged and pushed, consider doing the MPA. If you want to have the opportunity to learn directly from the foremost experts on policy, attend talks and sessions with world leaders, consider doing the MPA. I wouldn't want to choose any other programme!
What are your hopes or plans for your future after graduation?
In the future, I hope to move to an international organization or work in the diplomatic space. I enjoy connecting with people from different backgrounds and I hope to expand further into the field of international organizations.
What is your favourite place in London?
Anywhere along the Thames! It's the perfect running/walking spot, restaurants aplenty, and has the most breathtaking views at sunrise and sunset!
Where is your favourite spot on campus?
5th Floor CBG of course!
Can you describe your SPP experience so far in 3 words?
Inspiring. Challenging. Global.