The MIA Experience at LKYSPP

How does it feel to be the flag bearing batch of MIA at LKYSPP?

It has been a fascinating experience as being the first batch of Master’s in International Affairs at Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. The last two years have been like a roller coaster ride where I had so much to learn and so much to explore, both at personal and academic level. I had the privilege of working/studying with some talented and intellectually gifted students. Professors at LKYSPP are some of the finest academicians, researchers and policymakers in the world, which made the learning experience more vibrant and demanding.

Our professors and the academic affairs have provided us with all the help which we could ask for. As a MIA candidate, I learnt a lot about the theories and intricacies related to the current world order. Our professors laid emphasis on building a strong theoretical base so that a solid foundation can be built to analyse the current International system. Being the first batch, we were given time to learn about the structure of the course and LKYSPP at our own pace. We received support from almost everywhere. The last two years have been academically enriching for me. I have expanded my skill set, increased and diversified my knowledge and enhanced my ability to understand the political, economic and social dynamics of the world from different levels.

First Batch of MIA students with the Founding Dean Kishore and Faculty of LKYSPP

What are the three biggest take away points from this programme?

1. Great core modules and professors: MIA has numerous core modules that are related to the areas like International Economic Development, International Security and theories related to International Affairs. We have some of the best professors in the world, who are highly accomplished in their respective fields.
2. Specialisation: MIA students can specialise in six different areas which are very diverse. They are: 1) Politics, International Relations and Law, 2) International Security, 3) International Economics and Development 4) Regional Studies: The Asia Pacific, 5) International Public Management and Leadership and 6) Energy, Environment, Water. Specialisation is not necessary, but they do help in focusing on certain areas where the student wants to work/contribute in the future.
3. Sponsorship for Internships: The school sponsors to the students who are pursuing unpaid internships. It acts as a great incentive to work in organisations like the UN where internships are usually unpaid.

How would this programme help your career in the future?

My core modules and electives helped me to develop a skill set which I can use to shape my career in the future. My specialisation is in International Security with a focus on issues like International Conflict Analysis and Resolution, Climate Change and Natural Disasters. These modules helped me to understand the concepts related to these issues and provided me with certain analytical skills to approach these issues.

MIA Students with LKYSPP Faculty

What are you going to miss the most from the School?

I have many fond memories at LKYSPP with my fellow classmates. It has been a pleasure working with so many talented individuals on diverse set of issues. LKYSPP amalgamates different cultures, perspectives and thought process. It gives you a plethora of opportunities to learn. I will miss my classmates and the class activities we had organised in the last two years.

What would be your two suggestions to MIA aspirants to come to LKYSPP?

Anyone who aspires to pursue a master’s in international Affairs should consider LKYSPP for these two reasons:

1. The MIA class comprises of students hailing from diverse backgrounds and from different cultures and countries. We have students coming from almost all the regions of the world. The class size is usually small, so students get plenty of opportunities to interact and work with people coming from different parts of the world.
2. The School has been ranked as the number #1 public policy school in Asia. National University of Singapore is one of finest universities in the world. Students also get a chance to interact with renowned political leaders, researchers and activists making your overall experience highly enticing.