Name: Joshua Atienza
Programme and year: LSE-University of Toronto Double Degree MPA/MGA - Class of 2024
Nationality: Canadian
Can you tell us about your background and why you chose to study the MPA/MGA Double Degree programme at SPP and University of Toronto?
Prior to the SPP, I studied rare genetic diseases and their treatment in research labs in Toronto’s Discovery District. I also worked with the provincial public health agency to screen viral variants and coordinate vaccine efficacy research amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. While this work was fulfilling, I wanted to better understand the governance behind research and innovation programmes. Thus, I applied to the MPA/MGA Double Degree programme with an intention of blending my science background and policy training.
What have been some of your takeaways from your studies? How do you plan to use these in your future career?
- Trust and collaboration are paramount to good policy. At the SPP, I had an opportunity to work with brilliant minds from across the world. With mutual respect, we navigated difficult conversations and collaborated to envision and design policies that champion our shared values and vision for the future. This experience has taught me a lot about working with people, navigating conflict, and leveraging networks to enact change.
- Policy is all about creating and seizing a window of opportunity. Globally,there is a never-ending list of issues that require our attention. Through my training at the SPP and the Munk School, I feel better equipped in framing conversations around global issues, analyzing considerations for decision makers and proposing a path forward. Through the double degree programme, I met many passionate individuals who work tirelessly to create and seize windows of opportunity.
What do you think are the main benefits of being an MPA/MGA double degree student at LSE SPP and University of Toronto Munk School?
The programmes are complementary. The MPA equipped us with solid policy analysis foundations to better understand global affairs. I have always been in awe of the talent and community within the SPP and the Munk School. The network is strong and continually gives back. Additionally, the MPA/MGA double degree programme integrates experience through policy competitions, internships, and the Capstone project.
How do the two programme curriculums and university offerings complement each other?
The MPA has a strong focus on policy writing, quantitative analysis, and the policy cycle. The MGA programme complements this training by giving us a better understanding of the broader policy context such as geopolitics and governance that can influence policy implementation.
What are your favourite memories of student life at SPP?
I have fond memories of the hilarious conversations and spontaneous trips we planned within the SPP Student Space. I made a lot of friends at LSE which made my return for graduation even more worthwhile and special. As a special mention, my cohort and I enjoyed the skating and arcade bar social organized by the SPP team!
Can you tell us about your internship between your studies at SPP and University of Toronto?
I completed my internship with Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED, Government of Canada) where I had an opportunity to learn about grants and contributions, programme monitoring and evaluation, and public sector decision making. I was lucky to have joined a team that appreciated and applied my skill sets, gave me an opportunity to grow, and network as a student. This experience not only gave me clarity on the policy areas that I wanted to pursue beyond my graduate studies but also provided me with part-time work throughout my studies at Munk.
What are your highlights from your studies in Toronto?
One memory that is fresh in my mind is my recent participation in Atlantic Council’s Cyber 9/12 Trust & Safety Challenge in New York. It was the first time that Munk School has ever fielded a team for the competition and my team was comprised of my Munk and LSE double degree friends. We came in 3rd place, but the experience also affirmed the quality of our policy and global affairs training within the LSE-Munk Double Degree. Moreover, the competition coincided with the convocation ceremonies at Columbia University, so we got to see our double degree friends graduate as well!
Do you have any advice for our incoming double degree students?
Apply yourself and be bold! Introduce yourself to this great community, network and give back. I feel so privileged to be a part of such a vibrant, passionate, and generous community. I’m excited to see what my peers and I work on next.
Who should apply to study our MPA/MGA double degree?
Anyone passionate about understanding the world and how we can make it better for ourselves and future generations. When I wrote my LSE application, I had to convince myself that it would be worthwhile to jump from the research bench and delve into policy. Looking back, I have no regrets. I have met intelligent friends and colleagues, have a wider world view, and an eagerness to pursue a career merging my science and policy training.
What are your future plans and ambitions?
Upon graduation, I will continue my work with Innovation, Science and Economic Development but starting on a new file – Horizon Europe. It’s the world’s largest research and innovation funding programme. My team and I will work to ensure that Canadians are able leverage this network to elevate their research and deliver benefits for Canadians and the world. More broadly, I am excited to delve further into science and innovation policy and hopefully return to academia to teach in the future.
Do you have a favourite place in London and Toronto?
- For London: The area around Borough Market & Bermondsey is worth exploring! It’s a cool neighbourhood with lots of cool shops and restaurants.
- For Toronto: I love the hustle and bustle of the city but if you have a chance, explore the Scarborough Bluffs in the fall. It’s one of best places to see the fall foliage and Toronto’s waterfront.
Where is your favourite place on or near LSE campus?
Covent Garden! It’s a quick walk from campus and you have everything you need. My friends and I frequently visited the area for food or just to walk around. On campus, a sunny day out at Lincoln’s Inn Fields is hard to beat.
Can you describe your SPP experience in three words?
Challenging. Supportive. Global.
Joshua is happy to connect on LinkedIn.