Meet our students

MPA in Science, Engineering and Public Policy (2016) Nationality: Japan Education: Astrophysics, Kyoto University Profession: Japanese Civil Servant "All the modules were very practical. Throughout the MPA, we applied the skills we learned to actual policy problems while also getting input from experts and practitioners."

Professional background

I have six years of work experience in the Japanese government, mainly in the Ministry of Science and Technology. The Japanese government offers some civil servants the chance to study overseas, so when I got that opportunity I looked for courses that covered public policy and science and technology.

Experience gained during the degree

All of the modules were very practical. They had basic lectures but also opportunities to talk with each other and with tutors and to work with experts who came in to talk to us. Scenario week is an example of how we applied the skills we learned to an actual policy problem while also getting input from practitioners.

Future career plans

I hope to work in the division of information technology in Japan. My MPA extended client project was on data governance for autonomous vehicles, so I think I gained lots of knowledge and abilities concerning data governance and I can apply that in Japan.

MPA in Science, Technology and Public Policy (2016) Nationality: Singapore Education: BSc and Masters in Electronic Engineering, Osaka University Previous profession: Singapore Civil Service "The training I've got on this course will really help me act as a better bridge between scientists and policy officers."

Professional background

I was a civil servant in Singapore for seven years, mainly in the Ministry of Environment dealing with climate change, but also water and air pollution. I decided to take this degree because of its practical blend of theory and application, and also the blend of sciences and public policy.

Experience gained during the degree

For me each module actually had its own highlight. For example, the introductory sessions clearly presented how scientists and policy makers don't speak the same language. Then, it was a real surprise to have a practical assessment during our Negotiation module - I've never had that in any academic course before. In the module on Evidence, Institutions and Power, it was an eye opener to see how power relations can be so different in different countries. I found all the modules helpful and interesting.

Benefits of the MPA

The training I've got on this course will really help me act as a better bridge between scientists and policy officers. A lot of it boils down to knowledge of how each of the collaborators involved in developing policy think and behave, then being able to communicate to each side in a way that shows you are not trying to be an obstacle, but rather help work toward a mutual solution.

MPA Science, Engineering and Public Policy (2016) Nationality: China Education: BSc Economics, University of Liverpool "For me, the MPA at STEaPP is more practical than other MPA degrees. It focuses on integrating scientific, engineering and social areas into developing public policy."

Reason for taking the MPA degree

When I finished undergraduate studies I didn't want to continue on such an academic path, I wanted something more applied. For me the MPA at STEaPP is even more practical than other MPA degrees because it focuses on integrating the scientific, engineering and social areas into developing public policy.

Experience of the MPA degree

I found the course challenging, but the tutors and my classmates really encouraged and supported me. I worked hard, studied the terms, read the papers and things got better and better. It was quite an amazing experience for me because even though it was hard at the start, by the end I felt I mastered it.

MPA Science, Engineering and Public Policy (2016) Nationality: Mexico Education: BA Communication Sciences, Instituto Tecnologico Y De Estudios Superiores De Monterrey Professional background: Communications and Event Planning "The MPA has given me a  broader perspective on the world.  I've learnt to analyse information differently, acquired practical skills, and applied them to real world cases."

Experience of the MPA degree

We had a really great group of students who were helpful, supportive and understanding. Working with them helped me get into the rhythm of the programme, and discussing and communicating with them throughout the course has been wonderful. 

Benefits 

I feel that because of the course I have broader perspective of what is going on in the world. It's a course with so many different components, from science and engineering and technology through to social science and policy methods. Throughout the course I learnt to analyse information differently. Through my classes I feel much more enlightened in my understanding of the world.

This programme is very practical and is about acquiring skills, with assignments that are based on real world cases. The theory is used in the course to help develop you understanding, and so you can develop your language and vocabulary around policy, but theory and reading the books do not give you the practical world experience that you really need. This programme really gives you those practical skills.

Future career goals

I plan to move back into sustainability, and perhaps work with an NGO or in consultancy. I hope I can use the skills I have acquired from the programme to make a difference in things that actually matter.

1. Describe yourself in 15 words or less
I have the temperament to transform ideas into projects and projects into realities.

2. Undergraduate degree
Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering, Universidad Sergio Arboleda (Bogotá, Colombia)

3. Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far
It's hard to name just one:

• In 2015 the nonprofit organization (Mas Por TIC) that I co-created based on my undergraduate theses won the Social entrepreneurship award: "Premio Cemex-TEC 2015", by Ashoka and Monterrey Institute of Technology.
• In 2016 - 2017 I won a Chevening Scholarship to study the MPA in Science, Engineering and Public Policy. Chevening is the UK Government's international awards scheme aimed at developing global leaders. It is funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and partner organisations. As a result of this experience I co-founded a network of Latin American professionals with postgraduate education in the UK aiming to contribute to the design, delivery, and improvement of effective public policy, it is called Bloomsbury Policy Group
• In 2017 I developed a project from the idea, born from a diverse group of global individuals with a common commitment to advocate for Gender Equality. We came together in Dubai under the auspices of the World Government Summit 2017 to brainstorm on the best ways to make Sustainable Development Goal 5, Gender Equality, a reality by 2030. Today, our idea is a real solution. Thanks to the partnership with UCL Computer Science Industry Exchange Network, we have an online portal and multi-platform strategy called GAME IN that serves as a hub or focal point among initiatives and global organizations looking for gender equity. Then, the Digital Government Unit of Mexico and my NGO (Mas Por TIC) are working to implement and grow the platform in Latin-America.

4. Looking back on your experience, what one piece of advice would you give to future MPA applicants? 
You will take more advantages of the programme if you have good work experience, and please keep in mind that one year goes very fast, so take advantage of each module and the professors. Take risks, ask questions and do not feel afraid of making mistakes.

5. What was the key factor that led you to choose this programme?
I am an Engineer with work experience in the public sector and an NGO cofounder, STEaPP has the perfect combination - a focus on the technical and scientific world along with the political one. In addition, I was looking for a programme with more practical tools and real word challenges rather than a theoretical based programme.

6. How did the MPA training, skills and qualification help support you in your next role?
I can say I now have a really powerful policy analysis tool box, I am applying system analysis skills to formulate an adaptive policy to waste management in Bogota. The most valuable skills developed are a critical thinking mindset and the ability to quickly identify unknowns.

7. What does success look like to you?
Success is specific moments that are the result of the efforts and commitment with your purpose.

1. Describe yourself in 15 words or less
   I am curious, passionate about policy and a true lover of science and innovation.
2. Undergraduate degree
   Biomedical Sciences (UCL)
3. Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far
   One of them would be completing the MPA! Additionally, helping to develop policy positions to influence policy makers to ensure the best possible outcomes from Brexit for cancer patients.
4. Looking back on your experience, what one piece of advice would you give to future MPA applicants?
   Just relax and enjoy it as much as possible. Also take the time to get to know each other as you will learn just as much from each other as the course.
5. What was the key factor that led you to choose this programme?
   There is nothing else like it out there combining my love for science with my passion for policy and change.
6. How did the MPA training, skills and qualification help support you in your next role? I am in a policy role at the moment, so the course really helped me to develop the skills needed for developing policy positions and briefings. I even learnt how to interact with key stakeholders such as civil servants and MPs, which has proven very useful for my current role.
7. What does success look like to you?
   Success to me, means implementing change using evidence-based policy and being able to monitor the impact.

Patricio Barrera Valdez is a Pricing and Demand Coordinator at Shell in Mexico. Patricio is responsible for setting the retail fuel prices and coordinating the demand of gasoline for all stations in Mexico. Patricio has to forecast the revenue for all the retail fuel businesses in Mexico, as well as the volume needed to meet the demand in the country.

1. Describe yourself in 15 words or less:
   A simple guy with a good balance of a practical and creative mind who enjoys nature.
2. Undergraduate degree:
   Industrial Engineering with a Minor in Systems Engineering, Tecnológico de Monterrey in Mexico.
3. Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far:
   My biggest accomplishment is to be part of the energy industry at this moment in Mexico. Being part of a transition from a state-operated industry to an open market is quite a privilege. I think it is a very transcendental moment to be here in Mexico, because it means a step forward in achieving competitiveness and a diversified economy.
4. Looking back on your experience, what one piece of advice would you give to future MPA applicants?
   I would say experience everything.  Always try to connect your skills with your ambitions and ideals - and that will get you far.
5. What was the key factor that led you to choose this programme?
   The combination of engineering knowledge and that in the political field, as well as how engineering and science is channelled through public policy. Studying the intertwined relation of the industry, the government, and society has been a great experience.
6. How did the MPA training, skills and qualification help support you in your next role?
   The exposure to global experiences was crucial - having colleagues from every corner of the world, as well as being involved in government activities and projects with international institutions.
7. What does success look like to you?
   It is a combination of a few things: having a ground to step on, being always challenged as well as being able to take risks. Finally, having a great purpose and understanding of where you are heading.