Name: Millicent Makina
Programme and year: Master of Public Policy, Class of 2025
Nationality: Kenyan
Can you tell us about your background and why you chose to study the Master of Public Policy (MPP) at SPP?
For the last thirteen years, I have been working as a fiscal analyst in the Macroeconomic Analysis and Statistics department of the Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) in Kenya. My work primarily entailed undertaking GDP forecasts, appraising government policy proposals and spearheading PBO annual publications. These documents monitor government policy decisions, provide a critique and propose alternative policy options that should guide the government in formulating an optimal economic growth and development strategy for the country. It is crucial therefore to have a strong skillset not only in economics and quantitative methods, but also in public policy analysis.
It's for this reason that I chose to study the Master of Public Policy. Although I have an academic footing in economics and quantitative methods, my policy analysis skills have been developed on the job and are mostly anchored on my perception based on the evidence observed from data. With a Masters in Public Policy, I will be able to expand my knowledge and contribute more effectively to the review of government policies by providing clear, coherent and informed policy advise to lawmakers.
What have been some of your takeaways in your studies so far?
I can summarise my MPP experience into two key takeaways:
- The power of iterative thinking that takes into account interdisciplinary connections. I think that as experienced professionals there’s a tendency to become ‘tunnel-visioned’ and look for solutions to policy questions through the lens of our academic specialisation; viewing our approach as ‘superior’ to that of others from different disciplines. But the MPP course debunks this and highlights the complexity of effective public policy making as that which will often require interdisciplinary collaboration. I appreciate the fact that some of the topics we have covered in class have recurred across almost all units, from economics to political science, to public management, to philosophy, each unit has brought a unique angle to the subject matter and this has greatly enriched the policy memos and capstone projects that we are working on.
- The power of the group. I used to dread group work because, from experience, there is always that one person who just won’t pull their weight. But after several months of studies at SPP, I can confidently say that I have a new appreciation for the group. MPP studies are centred around group collaboration. Most of the units have group projects and presentations, and even where there are none, I found it very beneficial to discuss course materials in groups. The MPP cohort has diverse, talented individuals and group discussions have been an enriching experience. Once I leaned into the power of the group, I found that it sharpened my reasoning and deepened my understanding of the subject matter.
What makes you feel #partoflse?
The LSE goes beyond academics and targets the whole person. The academic mentoring and wellbeing support has truly made me feel a part of LSE. The faculty is quick to respond to queries and has been extremely supportive, not only in ensuring that we understand the course material, but also through providing career mentoring in preparation for our next stage as policy professionals. You get the sense that they truly want you to excel. The student wellbeing service is also very helpful in navigating challenges that may arise in student life, especially so far from home. The social events hosted by SPP have also been great for unwinding and networking with other students and staff.
Where is your favourite place in London?
The West End. As a theatre lover, this is my go to place to unwind. I have been to some truly amazing shows and I plan to visit many more theatres as I enjoy London’s rich culture.
What are your favourite things about being a SPP student?
The classes are not abstract, they are practical. Every theory or concept is tied to a real world problem that we get to tackle through policy memos, projects and presentations. This approach will make it quite easy to transfer my academic knowledge into policy practice. The Policy in Practice seminars with highly skilled professionals have also been quite enjoyable and informative.
Also, I just love the fact that we have a student common room. Whenever I am in between classes or just need a break, the common room provides a relaxing atmosphere and I also get to interact with other SPP students. Over time, it has come to feel like home. There are also some nice, quiet study areas if you don’t feel like going to the library.
Who would you recommend the programme to?
Anybody interested in creating impact and actually influencing policy outcomes, whether on a national or global scale, would benefit greatly from this programme.
What advice would you give to anyone who is considering studying the MPP?
Be prepared to deconstruct your thinking. Many MPP students are mid-career professionals and it is therefore easy to carry your biases from your professional life into the classroom. This will be a period of unlearning and relearning. Be prepared to accommodate different points of view, but don’t shy away from contributing yours.
The programme is intense, so come prepared to put in the work! There will be lots of blood, sweat and tears but there will also be incredible support from the faculty, your cohort and student services. Take advantage of all the resources provided to you as this will make your experience more meaningful. Remember your classmates are also a (often overlooked) resource.
Lastly, remember to make room for rest and fun. Burnout will make you unproductive (I’ve been there).
Do you have any practical advice for our international offer holders who are preparing to join us in September?
Get organised early in terms of accomodation. Rooms run out fast so book as early as you can. If you will not use student accomodation, there are other rented accomodations around London and you can start making inquiries early.
If you are able to arrive early in London, please do so to give yourself time to settle in before the programme begins. It can be flustering, trying to settle when term time has already begun.
Be open to new experiences, but keep a piece of home. For me, cooking a home dish every week made me feel less far from home.
Finally, find your community, people with shared interests who you can get to explore London with or just do fun stuff. They will be your support system.
What are your plans and ambitions after graduation?
After graduation, my primary goal is to contribute effectively to the development and implementation of impactful public policies in my home country. I am particularly interested in economic growth and development and I hope to apply the skills gained through this programme to support evidence-based solutions. Ultimately, I aspire to work closely with the government to drive positive, lasting change and help shape policies that improve the lives of citizens.
Can you describe your SPP experience in three words?
Challenging. Insightful. Impactful.
Millicent is happy to connect via LinkedIn.