Most who know of the LKYSPP will know that, even though we are based in Singapore, we are a global organisation. This means the focus is also global when we collaborate and recruit. For example, our MPP-MEA course is in collaboration with Sciences Po and the talent we attract and recruit come from everywhere!
But how much do we know about the students; what motivates them and what are their expectations of an international education? We want to know more about what makes our students tick; their expectations, experiences and motivations for doing the course. We find out from Carolin Bernhard, a German MPP-MEA student who is amidst the course! She graciously gave us her time and a sneak peek, let’s find out together.
1. What are you enjoying most about the MPP-MEA programme?
I truly enjoy the subject diversity in the field of European Studies offered by Sciences Po, which enables us students to analyse intersecting political and socio-economic developments from a range of angles. At the same time, I’m very much looking forward to spending the next year at NUS, getting to know different methodological frameworks and adopting new perspectives on policy-making in the European-Asian context.
2. Considering your expectations going in to the programme, is there anything that has surprised you?
I was only surprised that there are so few students which, on the bright-side of course, makes it easier to build friendships.
3. What has been the most enjoyable part of the programme? And what has been the least enjoyable?
At this point we haven’t been introduced to all aspects of the programme (such as the Capstone project), but thus far I have really been enjoying the interdisciplinary discussions in class and beyond. Both the teaching staff and fellow students are very open to intellectual and intercultural exchange. At times, the workload can be quite heavy, but the academic freedom to use assignments as papers and presentations to focus on our own academic interests makes the work very enjoyable.
4. Is there anything you are looking forward to learning in your time as an MPP-MEA post graduate student?
In terms of subject matter, I’m looking forward to deepening my knowledge on ASEAN, its regional impact and future opportunities during my stay in Singapore. The distinct notion of regional identity in Europe and Asia intrigues me, and I’m equally keen to learn more about the consideration of sustainable civil society-state-relations in the frame of policy making processes in both regional contexts.
5. Tell us about an interesting conversation that has taken place during the course that you’d like to share?
In my opinion, the cultural diversity in our student community enriches daily conversations tremendously. Discussing for example the subtle differences between Japanese Kanji and Chinese traditional characters with a fellow Italian student who also takes Japanese and Chinese language classes, or debating topics of political philosophy, attitudes towards sovereignty and regime change with a fellow Chinese student made me realise how precious and crucial such beyond-border exchange is in shaping my own values and expanding my personal and professional horizon.
It is truly wonderful that we have intellectual diversity and cultural curiosity amongst our MPP-MEA students. Carolin really shows us that one can exhibit a tolerance to ambiguity and a willingness to engage beyond ones’ own comfort zone. As Malcolm Forbes said, “Diversity is the art of thinking independently together”.