Name: Nikita Jain
Programme and year: MPP Class of 2024
Nationality: Indian
Can you tell us about your background and why you chose to study the MPP programme at SPP?
Drawn to LSE's global reputation for policy excellence, I sought a rigorous programme that would equip me with the tools to tackle complex challenges. SPP's emphasis on quantitative analysis, combined with its focus on real-world policy problems, perfectly aligned with my aspirations.
What have been some of your takeaways from your studies? How do you plan to use these in your future career?
My time at LSE has equipped me with a powerful toolkit for tackling complex policy challenges. Here are the key takeaways:
- Evidence is almost the King: While "evidence is king" holds weight, LSE has instilled in me a nuanced understanding of its role. Policymaking isn't a rigid formula - data serves as a powerful guide, but acknowledging the limitations of even the most sophisticated models by the wisest of economists is crucial. Real-world complexities often necessitate a touch of informed judgment alongside the data to truly forge effective solutions.
- A ‘Glocal’ Approach to Policy: Collaborating with a diverse student body has shattered any remaining silos in my thinking. I've learned to approach policy challenges through a "glocal" lens, considering both the global context and the critical need for context-specific solutions. Effective policies must be tailored to the unique needs and nuances of local communities while remaining aligned with broader global trends.
- Policies have a heartbeat: LSE has driven home the importance of the human element in policy design and implementation. Effective policies aren't abstract concepts - they must resonate with the aspirations, needs, and circumstances of the people they impact. My focus will be on crafting and advocating for human-centric policies that drive tangible positive change in the communities I serve.
By harnessing these insights, I plan to be a force for meaningful progress in my future career. My goal is to champion policies that are not only evidence-based and contextually sensitive but also designed with the human experience at the core.
What makes you feel #partoflse?
The same passion and shared commitment to doing something for the world make me feel #partoflse.
What can you tell us about the LSE Changemaker process and your contribution?
I was fortunate to have the exposure under 'LSE Changemaker 2024', alongside fellow MPP student Charles de Belen. This recognition was incredibly special to me because there's nothing more rewarding than giving back to your institution that gives you so much, in whatever way possible.
We worked on making the students' experience better by closing the feedback loop with our findings, we hope it to help the cohorts to follow. Through surveys and consultations, we helped uncover a gap in the current system: a significant number of students (66.7%) were unaware of the outcomes of their feedback.
This lack of awareness, despite valuing feedback itself (90% of respondents!), led to a disconnect in the feedback loop. Traditional communication channels (emails, announcements) proved insufficient. Additionally, student expectations around feedback implementation weren't fully understood, impacting satisfaction (9.5% dissatisfied).
Our analysis highlighted the need for a multifaceted yet do-able approach. And by adopting those strategies, the European Institute can significantly improve its feedback loop, leading to:
- Increased Student Satisfaction: Students feel valued and engaged in the improvement process.
- Enhanced Transparency: Clear communication fosters trust and a more responsive learning environment.
- Stronger Feedback Culture: Increased awareness leads to more impactful feedback submissions.
Our contribution helped identify a crucial missing piece in the feedback puzzle, paving the way for a more effective and student-centric feedback system at LSE.
What’s the best thing about being a SPP student?
You can actually feel and experience that you are in one of the best departments at LSE! You can feel the excellence in every aspect, from world-class faculty and diverse peers to cutting-edge resources, practical skills, and unparalleled networking opportunities.
Who should study the MPP?
Visionaries and problem-solvers eager to craft and implement impactful policies and lead transformative change on a global scale.
What advice would you give to anyone who is considering studying the MPP?
The MPP will not give you answers to your problems, but it’ll make you learn how to think through the solution, navigating through all the challenges and best possible solutions in your country's context.
If you are ready to unlearn and relearn - this is the place for you. If you want a readymade solution for frameworks for all issues, you’ll be disappointed.
What are your plans and ambitions after graduation?
I hope to continue working on public sector projects, just aiming to increasing the geography and impact.
Do you have any practical advice for our offer holders who are preparing to join us in September?
- You are not coming for a ‘break’ - MPP cannot be a chill break! It is intense and demanding. Take a little break and then come to study.
- Don’t overwhelm yourself doing 100% of the reading list! They are great, and maybe the more the better but do things at your pace and comfort. Enjoying the process > burning out.
- Everyone has a different motive of being there. Do not disrespect yourself ever by comparing with anyone. For me coming straight home, eating fresh home cooked food and talking to my family worked well for my body and mind. For some, hanging out till midnight with dozens of friends might work making the most of the student life, or sitting in library till the late evenings and having the most stimulating discussions. Do whatever serves your purpose well. Nothing is wrong or right.
Where is your favourite place in London?
LSE! I fell in love with LSE way before I fell in love with this city. There were days when I felt slightly low and the moment I stepped onto the LSE campus, I’d get all the positive energy.
Where is your favourite place on or near campus?
LSE Library! I write this with the fear of sounding extremely boring, but LSE library is one of the most motivating and live places I’ve ever visited. You will see like-minded people reading, discussing, doing things all with a common mission to move/change things.
Can you describe your SPP experience in three words?
Catalytic. Empowering. Intense.
Nikita is happy to connect on LinkedIn.