The UBC Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs (MPPGA) program partners with premier public policy schools in Europe and Asia through a student exchange program. Currently we have students on exchange to and from Hertie School of Governance (Berlin, Germany), Sciences Po School of Public Affairs (Paris, France) and Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (Singapore).
Read about the experiences of four of our 2nd year MPPGA students on exchange below:
Nicole So with students at Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore
Nicole So, MPPGA Student
“On top of Crazy Rich Asians, Hainanese Chicken rice and delicious laksa, Singapore is known for its strong governance and efficient civil service. My exchange term abroad at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, one of the partners of the MPPGA program, has been an eye-opening experience for me. I wanted to study and understand policies in the Asian context so I could bring the knowledge back home.
From my courses on Chinese Political Leadership and Economic Development to Leadership and Decision-making in Singapore, the opportunity to study about Asia, in Asia and from a world-class faculty and classmates has further opened me to new perspectives and ways of thinking.
Nicole So with PM Justin Trudeau, Singapore
I’ve also attended various interesting events, such as having a dialogue with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, a visiting the Singapore Facebook HQ and meeting senior leadership, and learning about Singapore’s water security from the special advisor to the Chairman.
My exchange in Singapore has not only complemented my studies at UBC, but it is also important for understanding public policy in a comparative context and fundamental for fostering global citizenship. I would highly encourage my fellow MPPGA students to consider a term abroad.”
Susanne Beilmann at the Hertie School of Governance, Berlin
Susanne Beilmann, MPPGA Student
“Going on exchange to the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, Germany, has been wholly rewarding on an academic and personal level. Attending Hertie has given me the opportunity to enrol in courses that are very much related to my area of focus, social change and development. These courses, which include ‘Governance in Areas of Limited Statehood’ and ‘The Role of NGOs in International Politics’, have deepened my understanding of the challenges of development work and the policies that are most effective for bringing about the desired outcomes.
Likewise, being witness to the political and social transitions that Germany and the European Union are currently undergoing has been fascinating, particularly from a governance point of view.”
Nick Lloyd-Kuzik at the Hertie School of Governance, Berlin
Nick Lloyd-Kuzik, MPPGA Student
“The Hertie School of Governance has blown me away with the level of access students are given to professionals, policymakers, and thought leaders in all policy areas. For example, one of my classes granted me access to the World Health Summit where I was amongst the most senior figures health policy. A short list of the speakers included the Director General of the WHO, Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, Angela Merkel, Bill Gates, CEOs from the largest pharmaceutical companies as well as most the prominent organizations in civil society, and health ministers from around the world.
I was also able to interview the Pulitzer Prize winning environmental author and journalist Elizabeth Kolbert one-on-one for the student newspaper and podcast. The Hertie staff have been incredible with helping to make these opportunities a reality for students. There are more events for networking and learning than I could possibly attend, and it’s really easy to fill your schedule with opportunities to develop any policy interest. The students at Hertie are impressive and diverse so it’s easy to meet friends to explore the city. Berlin also happens to be an incredibly fun and vibrant place, so get ready to explore!”
Sara Harb at Sciences Po, Paris
Sara Harb, MPPGA Student
“I’m on an exchange program at Sciences Po (Paris) as part of my MPPGA journey. I’m taking courses based on my interest ranging from Energy and Public Policy in the Middle East, Law and New Technologies, Public Policy and Research Practice, Migration and Human Rights in the Global Economy and French B1. The courses at Sciences Po provide alternative perspectives on global issues, which has been an exciting learning opportunity. Courses are offered by professionals in the field, who bring real life problems and practical knowledge which allow for critical thinking and stimulating discussions. I’m joined with students from around the world, enriching my cultural experiences and expanding my network capacity internationally. I highly recommend undertaking an exchange program in order to gain exposure to a different system of bureaucracy, administration and teaching styles.
While in Paris, I had the opportunity to travel around France to immerse in the culture and practice my French language skills for my personal development and enhance my future career prospects. I’ve enjoyed my experiences during the exchange program by indulging in culture through food, books, art and music.”
